Cognitive disorders in the practice of a primary link: Focus for patients with arterial hypertension

Authors:
O.D. OSTROUMOVA, A.I. KOCHETKOV, N.A. SHATALOVA

Place of publication:
NEW THERAPEUTIC JOURNAL "NON NOCERE", SEPTEMBER, 2023

Abstract:
Arterial hypertension (AH) is currently a highly pressing issue in modern society. Its prevalence among the adult population averages 30–45%, increasing significantly in older age groups. Furthermore, due to the expected increase in life expectancy, the number of patients with AH is projected to increase. In terms of clinical significance, particular attention to AH is due to the wide range of complications caused by the disease and the target organs involved, including the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, vision, and brain. Several large population-based studies have shown that the higher the office blood pressure (BP), the higher the risk of stroke, coronary heart disease, heart failure, peripheral artery disease, end-stage renal disease, and sudden death. AH is also recognized as a pathogenetic factor in the development of vascular cognitive impairment (CI) and Alzheimer's disease. However, before reaching the final stage of dementia, patients consistently progress through intermediate stages between normal cognitive functioning and severe cognitive impairment. As these stages progress, cognitive status progressively deteriorates, gradually impairing quality of life and negatively impacting a person's adaptation to various aspects of daily life. Numerous studies have clearly established a link between elevated blood pressure and cognitive impairment, demonstrating that the latter represents one of the earliest manifestations of brain damage associated with hypertension.