Can keeping a lid on blood pressure cut your risk of memory loss?

Researchers examined MRI brain scans of 458 participants aged 50 or older in the landmark SPRINT trial, which found that lowering systolic blood pressure to under 120 (intensive treatment group) led to a lower risk of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure than lowering pressure to under 140 (standard treatment group).

Over the four-year trial, the intensive group had a smaller increase in white matter lesions and a larger increase in cerebral blood flow in several vulnerable brain regions compared to the standard group. White matter lesions and reduced cerebral blood flow are linked to dementia and cognitive decline.

What to do

Aim for a systolic blood pressure under 120 using a healthy diet, drugs, or both to protect your heart...and maybe your memory.