A significant gap between systolic (upper) and diastolic (lower) blood pressure might signal an elevated susceptibility to dementia, according to researchers from the United States. These findings were disclosed at the annual scientific event, the Annual Scientific Session of the American College of Cardiology (ACC.26).
The scientists examined data from 8,536 adults over the age of 50 who were taking part in the extensive SPRINT study. Participants underwent routine measurements of both systolic and diastolic arterial pressure. The first figure represents the peak force within the arteries as the heart contracts, while the second denotes the lowest force between heartbeats. The differential between these two figures is termed the pulse pressure index.
Throughout the observation period, 323 participants were diagnosed with probable dementia. The subsequent analysis demonstrated that both a greater pulse pressure index and elevated heart rates were correlated with a markedly increased probability of cognitive impairment. As this measure increased, the likelihood of developing dementia or mild cognitive disorders rose by approximately 76%.
Furthermore, the researchers assessed what is known as the estimated pulse wave velocity—a metric reflecting arterial stiffness and vascular “aging.” Dementia also manifested considerably more frequently among individuals exhibiting higher values for this parameter.
The research team points out that these metrics are calculable using routine blood pressure and pulse readings obtained during a standard physical examination. This capability could enable clinicians to identify a heightened dementia risk well before any initial symptoms emerge, allowing them to advise patients on implementing blood pressure management and lifestyle modifications.
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