High blood pressure can lead to heart attacks and strokes, but new research suggests it may also contribute to cognitive decline. A study conducted by Wake Forest University School of Medicine found that intensive blood pressure management can significantly reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia in adults with hypertension.
The SPRINT MIND trial involved 9,361 participants aged 50 and older from over 100 clinic sites across the US and Puerto Rico. Half were given a low systolic blood pressure goal of less than 120mmHg, while the other half received a standard treatment goal of less than 140mmHg.
After seven years, those in the intensive treatment group showed a sustained lower incidence of cognitive impairment compared to the standard treatment group. This builds on previous findings from the SPRINT trial, which demonstrated reduced cardiovascular disease and death risk by 30-40% with intensive blood pressure management.
The latest study extends these benefits over time, showing continued reductions in cognitive impairment rates for at least seven years. The results support the long-term cognitive benefits of aggressive blood pressure control.
Source: https://www.consumeraffairs.com/news/heres-another-reason-to-get-your-blood-pressure-under-control-012225.html