Effects of hypertension and its treatment on mental function

This paper addresses the relationship between hypertension and cognitive status and the impact of antihypertensive treatment. Data from cross-sectional and longitudinal studies are reviewed. After adjustment for age and level of education, cognitive function of hypertensive patients is impaired compared with the cognitive status of their nonhypertensive counterparts. The mechanisms underlying hypertension associated cognitive impairment remain to be elucidated. The role of antihypertensive treatment also has to be determined. Some evidence suggests that antihypertensive treatment may prevent dementia in hypertensive patients.