Association between Blood Pressure and Post-Stroke Cognitive Impairment: A Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is a significant complication following a stroke.
• The development and progression of PSCI may be associated with blood pressure (BP) levels.
• Understanding the relationship between BP and PSCI is crucial for stroke patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze existing literature.
• To examine the correlation between blood pressure (BP) and post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI).

Main Methods:

• A meta-analysis was conducted on 12 studies with 21,732 participants.
• Data were extracted following MOOSE guidelines, and study quality was assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa scale.
• Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated to determine the association between BP and PSCI.

Main Results:

• Hypertension, systolic BP (SBP), and diastolic BP (DBP) were significantly associated with PSCI.
• Specific BP ranges, including SBP < 120 mmHg and DBP >= 100 mmHg, were strong predictors of PSCI.
• The predictive effect of BP on PSCI diminished at SBP >= 180 mmHg and DBP < 99 mmHg.

Conclusions:

• While BP is associated with PSCI, its role as an independent risk factor requires further investigation due to the multifactorial nature of PSCI.
• The findings suggest BP management may be a potential target for addressing PSCI.
• Larger sample size studies are recommended to confirm these associations.