People with a genetic susceptibility to raised pulse pressure are at greater risk of dementia-related death, according to new research. The study found that this blood pressure measure could increase risk by 16 per cent.
Pulse pressure, an important marker of cardiovascular risk, is calculated by subtracting the lower figure from the upper figure in a blood pressure reading. Measurements of 50 mmHg or above may elevate a person's likelihood of developing numerous health problems, including heart disease and strokes.
For the study, published in Neurology journal, researchers analysed data from more than 8,000 adults with an average age of 64 who were tracked for up to 14 years for dementia-related mortality and roughly nine years for cognitive impairment. Commenting on the findings, Dr Sheona Scales, director of research at Alzheimer's Research UK, said: 'Heart-health risk factors such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol have long been recognised as contributors to dementia risk.'
She added: 'Now, research in Neurology has brought fresh insights, suggesting that people with a greater genetic risk for high blood pulse pressure may have an increased risk from dying from dementia related causes. These findings highlight how closely heart and brain health are connected and could share the same genetic underpinnings.'
However, she stressed that there are other vital measures one can take to lower the likelihood of developing dementia. 'Keeping your pulse pressure in a healthy range goes hand in hand with looking after your overall blood pressure. That means staying on top of check-ups, eating a balanced diet, and keeping active,' she said.
