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Evaluation of the Cognitive Performance of Hypertensive Patients with Silent Cerebrovascular Lesions
Published on: April 23, 2021
High-normal blood pressure is associated with poor cognitive performance.
Stefan Knecht1, Heike Wersching, Hubertus Lohmann
1Department of Neurology, University of Münster, A. Schweitzer Str. 33, 48129 Münster, Germany. knecht@uni-muenster.de
Hypertension (Dallas, Tex. : 1979)
|February 6, 2008
Summary
Elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP) is linked to poorer cognitive function, even within the normal range. This inverse relationship is particularly strong in midlife individuals, highlighting the importance of blood pressure management for brain health.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiology
- Gerontology
Background:
- The relationship between systolic blood pressure (SBP) and vascular events is well-established and linear.
- However, the association between SBP and cognitive function is less clear, particularly across different age groups.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cross-sectional relationship between SBP and cognitive performance in a cohort spanning mid- to late-life.
- To determine if this association extends into the normotensive range of SBP.
Main Methods:
- The study analyzed data from 377 community-dwelling individuals (aged 44-82 years) from the SEARCH-Health study.
- Cognitive function was assessed using a comprehensive neuropsychological test battery, yielding 5 composite scores and a global cognition score.
- Multivariate analyses examined the association between SBP, education, age, and gender with global cognitive performance.
Main Results:
- Systolic blood pressure, education, age, and gender collectively explained one-third of the variance in global cognitive performance.
- A linear, inverse relationship was observed between SBP and global cognitive performance, even within the normotensive range (<120 mm Hg to >170 mm Hg).
- Subgroup analysis revealed that this association was primarily driven by individuals under 60 years of age.
Conclusions:
- Increasing systolic blood pressure is inversely related to cognitive performance, even in the normotensive range.
- This inverse relationship is particularly pronounced in midlife individuals.
- These findings underscore the potential impact of blood pressure management on cognitive health across the lifespan.
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