Individuals aged 60 and above who have untreated high blood pressure could face a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared to those who are undergoing treatment for high blood pressure or those without the condition. This finding stems from new research published on August 14, 2024, in the online edition of Neurology®, the official medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology. However, it’s important to note that these findings do not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between untreated high blood pressure and Alzheimer’s disease; instead, they indicate a correlation.
Matthew J. Lennon, MD, PhD, from the University of New South Wales in Australia, remarked, “High blood pressure significantly contributes to stroke and cerebrovascular disease, but it can be effectively managed through medication, which lowers an individual’s risk for these conditions. Previous studies have shown that using blood pressure medications may also reduce the risk of various forms of dementia. However, there is limited understanding regarding the specific impact of blood pressure on the risk for Alzheimer’s disease. Our meta-analysis focused on older adults and indicated that not treating high blood pressure may indeed elevate the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.”
In this meta-analysis, researchers studied 31,250 individuals, averaging 72 years old, who participated in 14 studies tracking cognitive changes and dementia diagnoses over time. The participants hailed from various countries, including Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, Korea, Nigeria, Republic of Congo, Spain, Sweden, and the United States. On average, they were monitored for around four years, during which 1,415 individuals were diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers examined blood pressure readings, diagnosis of high blood pressure, and the use of blood pressure medications for each participant. They found that 9% had untreated high blood pressure, 51% were on medications, 36% did not have high blood pressure, and 4% had uncertain cases.
After accounting for factors like age, sex, and education, the study revealed that individuals with untreated high blood pressure faced a 36% higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to those without high blood pressure. Additionally, there was a 42% increased risk when compared to those who had high blood pressure but were on medication.
Lennon stated, “Our worldwide meta-analysis demonstrated that the use of blood pressure medications is linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer’s disease as people age. This information underlines the importance of effectively managing high blood pressure to diminish the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.”
One limitation of the study was the varying definitions of high blood pressure across different regions, which might result in inconsistencies in diagnosis.
This meta-analysis was supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council in Australia and the U.S. National Institute on Aging, part of the National Institutes of Health.
