Vascular cognitive impairment, a cardiovascular complication.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Gerontology
• Public Health

Background:

• Vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) describes cognitive decline, particularly executive dysfunction, linked to vascular pathology.
• It is the most common cause of cognitive impairment, affecting 30% of stroke survivors, and imposes significant economic and caregiver burdens.
• Standardized diagnostic criteria for VCI are currently lacking.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the available literature on vascular cognitive impairment (VCI).
• To highlight the association between hypertension and VCI.
• To discuss current management and prevention strategies for VCI.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of existing literature.
• Sources were identified through searches in PubMed, MEDLINE, and Google Scholar.

Main Results:

• Hypertension is a significant risk factor for VCI, causing cerebral vessel changes that lead to executive dysfunction.
• Antihypertensive medications show promise in managing VCI and preventing progression to vascular dementia.
• Cognitive screening for executive dysfunction is recommended for individuals with cardiovascular risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Prompt and adequate control of hypertension is essential for VCI prevention.
• Cognitive screening in at-risk populations can aid in early detection and intervention.
• Addressing VCI is critical given the increasing prevalence of dementia.