Vascular Markers and Cognitive Functions in Early Hypertension
Author Information
Author(s): Majer Réka, Nagy Attila, Csikai Enikő, Andrejkovics Mónika, Diószegi Ágnes, Tóth Attila, Csiba László
Primary Institution: University of Debrecen
Hypothesis
Controlling hypertension may reduce the risk of cognitive impairment.
Conclusion
The intima–media thickness, flow-mediated dilatation, and their ratio can help identify patients at risk for cognitive impairment due to early hypertension.
Supporting Evidence
- The flow-mediated dilatation showed significant correlations with working memory, attention, learning, and executive functions.
- The intima–media thickness showed significant correlations with attention and reaction time.
- The composite flow-mediated dilatation/IMT ratio showed a significant relationship with the overall index of cognitive functions.
- A flow-mediated dilatation/IMT ratio of 15 represents a cut-off value for cognitive impairment.
- The pulse wave velocity showed a significant correlation with working memory and attention.
- The augmentation index showed significant relationships with reaction time and executive functions.
Takeaway
This study found that certain blood vessel measurements can help doctors figure out if people with high blood pressure might have trouble thinking clearly.
Methodology
The study involved assessing patients with newly diagnosed primary hypertension using various vascular and cognitive tests.
Potential Biases
Exclusion of patients with comorbidities may not accurately represent the hypertensive population.
Limitations
The study was single-center and had a limited sample size, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Predominantly middle-aged individuals with a mean age of 45.08 years and a male-to-female ratio of 2.09.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p = 0.002
Confidence Interval
[0.60655, 0.86446]
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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