What is linked to the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease?

High blood pressure, or hypertension, has been linked to an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Research indicates that high blood pressure can lead to damage in the blood vessels, including those in the brain. Over time, this damage can compromise blood flow and contribute to cognitive decline. The relationship between hypertension and dementia involves a variety of mechanisms, including inflammation, oxidative stress, and the promotion of neurodegenerative processes.

While other factors, such as high levels of cholesterol, low physical activity, and poor diet quality, can influence overall brain health and may be associated with an increased risk of cognitive decline, the direct and established connection between high blood pressure and dementia risk highlights its significance. This forms part of a broader understanding of how cardiovascular health directly impacts brain function and cognitive integrity over time.