30 January 2025

Intensive Blood Pressure Control May Lower Dementia Risk in High-Risk Adults

A new study from Wake Forest University School of Medicine suggests that intensive blood pressure control in adults with hypertension and high cardiovascular risk can help reduce the long-term risk of mild cognitive impairment or dementia.

With projections estimating that over 9 million Americans may develop dementia by 2030 and nearly 12 million by 2040, cognitive decline remains a growing concern. Mild cognitive impairment, a transitional phase between normal aging and dementia, is also expected to rise.

Uncontrolled high blood pressure not only increases the risk of cardiovascular disease but also contributes to cognitive decline and dementia. Research indicates that more than half of Americans will develop hypertension by age 50.

The study, recently published in Neurology, explored the impact of intensive versus standard blood pressure management on cognitive health, highlighting the potential benefits of aggressive hypertension treatment in reducing dementia risk.