Better control of high blood pressure reduced dementia cases
What the study found
A large study in rural China followed 33,995 people aged 40 or older who had poorly controlled high blood pressure. The researchers randomly divided 326 villages into two groups. In half of the villages, trained healthcare workers, supervised by doctors, adjusted medications to bring blood pressure below 130/80. In the other villages, people continued receiving their usual care. After four years, the top blood pressure number, called systolic pressure, had fallen by an average of 22 points (mmHg) more in the program group. Dementia cases were about 15% lower in this group. Serious health problems were also slightly less common, rather than more common.
What this means in practice
Checking your blood pressure regularly and taking medication as prescribed by your doctor helps protect your heart and, based on the evidence, your brain as well. Do not change or stop your medication on your own. Bring your home blood pressure readings to your medical appointments.
Study limitations
Participants and healthcare workers knew which group they were in. The study took place in rural China, where high blood pressure often receives too little treatment. The results may be different in other places.
Important notice: Mais Anos summarizes scientific studies for information only. It is not medical advice, does not diagnose and promises no cure. Always talk to your doctor before changing treatments or habits.
