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Cognitive impairment and cardiovascular diseases in the elderly. A heart-brain continuum hypothesis

Pasquale Abete1, David Della-Morte2, Gaetano Gargiulo3

  • 1Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Italy.

Ageing Research Reviews
|August 10, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and heart failure increase dementia risk. This review examines studies linking various heart conditions to cognitive decline and dementia progression.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • Aging populations face rising rates of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including hypertension, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and chronic heart failure.
  • Growing evidence links CVDs to an elevated risk of cognitive impairment and dementia, potentially via mechanisms like embolic stroke or chronic cerebral hypoperfusion.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing literature on the association between cardiovascular diseases and the presence or development of cognitive impairments and dementia.
  • To synthesize findings regarding the spectrum of cardiovascular conditions and their impact on cognitive function.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review of cohort studies and observational research.
  • Analysis of studies investigating cognitive function and dementia in patients with diverse cardiovascular conditions.

Main Results:

  • Studies indicate a significant relationship between cardiovascular diseases and increased risk for cognitive impairment.
  • Evidence suggests a potential continuum from conditions like hypertension and atrial fibrillation to cognitive decline and dementia progression.

Conclusions:

  • Cardiovascular diseases represent a significant risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia.
  • A hypothesized continuum exists among hypertension, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, and chronic heart failure, contributing to cognitive impairment and dementia development.

Keywords:
Cardiovascular diseaseCognitive impairmentDementia

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