Protecting Brain Health Through Blood Pressure Control: Hypertension as a Modifiable Dementia Risk Factor
Dr. Jason Hinman, Director of the UCLA Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer's Research and Care and Associate Professor of Neurology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, joined fellow experts at the Healthy Brain LA Impact Summit, hosted by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, to discuss the critical connection between vascular health and cognitive health.
A central theme of the discussion was that high blood pressure is one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for dementia and cognitive decline. While many people understand that hypertension increases the risk of heart attack and stroke, panelists emphasized that managing blood pressure is also one of the most effective steps individuals can take to protect brain health and reduce their risk of dementia.
The panel highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach to blood pressure management that extends beyond medication alone. Effective prevention strategies include healthy lifestyle changes, regular physical activity, culturally responsive health education, community support, and health system interventions that improve access to care and preventive services.
Speakers also addressed common misconceptions surrounding chronic health conditions. In many communities, particularly communities of color, conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol are often viewed as a normal part of aging. Panelists stressed the need to increase public awareness of the link between vascular and brain health, provide culturally relevant education, address social determinants of health, and equip individuals with practical resources such as home blood pressure monitors and easy-to-understand educational materials.
The discussion also explored the science behind the relationship between hypertension and dementia. Dr. Hinman explained that elevated blood pressure can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those that supply the brain, long before symptoms appear. Over time, inflammation, vessel stiffening, impaired blood flow regulation, and increased risk of stroke can contribute to cognitive impairment and dementia.
Panelists noted that these complications disproportionately affect some populations, including African American communities, underscoring the need for targeted prevention efforts and equitable access to care.
The session concluded with a clear message: maintaining healthy blood pressure is not only essential for cardiovascular health but is also one of the most important actions people can take to preserve cognitive function and support healthy brain aging.
