Lower blood pressure linked to lower dementia risk
Currently, dementia has no cure
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HEALTH Tips
Controlling blood pressure could play a key role in preventing dementia, according to a major study. Scientists have long suspected a link between hypertension and cognitive decline, but this analysis, published in Nature Medicine, provides some of the strongest evidence yet that treatment can reduce those risks.
The late-stage clinical trial involved nearly 34,000 adults in rural China with long-term high blood pressure. While one group received standard care, the other benefited from active intervention by community health workers, who provided medication and encouraged lifestyle changes such as reducing salt and alcohol intake.
The findings suggest that prioritizing blood pressure management could be an effective strategy to curb the rising global burden of dementia, which currently has no cure. Over four years, participants who received medication, counseling, and monitoring support had a 15% lower risk of developing dementia and a 16% lower risk of cognitive impairment.
High blood pressure can also increase the chances of heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, it is of fundamental importance to try and keep your blood pressure at a normal level.
If you do have high blood pressure, there are lifestyle changes that can be made to reverse it. Take a look through the following gallery to find out how. Of course, always keep in mind the need to consult your doctor.
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