A recent study highlights a significant health concern among older adults, particularly older Black men, showing a link between blood pressure fluctuations and cognitive decline.
The study, published in the journal Neurology, expands on prior findings by examining how blood pressure variability affects cognitive abilities in both white and Black populations. Results revealed that older Black men are especially susceptible, with those exhibiting the most variation in their blood pressure over 18 years showing signs of increased cognitive aging equivalent to an additional 2.8 years.
Historically, studies have focused predominantly on white participants, leaving a gap in understanding regarding other racial groups. This study tries to fill that gap by emphasizing the unique cardiovascular risks faced by Black individuals, likely influenced by various social determinants such as access to healthcare and socioeconomic status. These factors contribute to a higher prevalence of conditions like hypertension among Black adults, which are known to heighten cognitive decline risks.
Involving 4,770 individuals aged 65 or older, the study collected data from participants over a span of 18 years, monitoring their blood pressure every three years and administering cognitive tests. Findings indicated that Black participants generally had higher blood pressure variability compared to their white counterparts, averaging at 17.7 mm Hg against 16 mm Hg, respectively. Additionally, those with greater blood pressure variability scored lower on cognitive assessments at the study’s conclusion, illustrating the negative cognitive impacts of fluctuating blood pressure.
Interestingly, the study identified that the cognitive decline linked to blood pressure variability was independent of the overall blood pressure levels, suggesting the variations themselves are a critical risk factor. This understanding is pivotal as it may reshape how cognitive decline risk is approached, particularly for older Black individuals.
The findings also emphasize the importance of managing blood pressure and its fluctuations through medication and lifestyle changes. Although those taking medication showed less cognitive decline, the study noted that Black individuals with hypertension are less likely to be on such treatments.
Experts in the field, like Dr. Anisa Dhana from Rush University, stress the growing necessity of identifying strategies to slow cognitive decline as the population ages and Alzheimer’s disease prevalence rises. Dr. José Morales, a vascular neurologist, believes that new technologies allowing for continuous blood pressure monitoring might be key to mitigating the effects of hypertension.
Furthermore, maintaining a healthy blood pressure through lifestyle adjustments is crucial. Dr. Alan Rozanski advises limiting processed foods, reducing sodium intake, engaging in regular physical activity, and managing stress as effective ways to keep blood pressure in check. Regular blood pressure check-ups are also vital to catch any irregularities early.
The study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to address cardiovascular health disparities. By better understanding and managing blood pressure variability, especially in older Black adults, it may be possible to reduce cognitive decline risks. Ensuring equitable access to healthcare and targeted treatment plans could play a significant role in addressing these disparities.
Source: MedicalNewsToday
