Heart Disease and Dementia: Same Cause? | Medical News and Health Information

(Ivanhoe Newswire) — New research reveals the same artery-clogging process that causes heart disease — known as atherosclerosis — may also contribute to dementia.

Atherosclerosis is a build-up of plaque in the arteries that is associated with high blood pressure, cholesterol and other risk factors. Cognitive impairment, which is also known as dementia, is characterized by difficulty with thinking, reasoning and memory. It can be caused by vascular disease, Alzheimer’s disease or a combination of both and other causes.

“We have learned that cerebrovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease may work together to cause cognitive impairment, and the mixed disorder may be the most common type of dementia in older persons,” Philip B. Gorelick, M.D., M.P.H., co-chair of the writing group for the statement and director of the Center for Stroke Research at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago, was quoted as saying.

The researchers say treating risk factors for heart disease and stroke with lifestyle changes and medical therapies may prevent or slow dementia in some individuals. They suggest partaking in physical activity, eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy body weight and avoiding tobacco. They also say managing one’s cholesterol and blood pressure may help ward off dementia.

“Generally speaking, what is good for the heart is good for the brain,” Gorelick said. “Although it is not definitely proven yet, treatment or prevention of major risk factors for stroke and heart disease may prove to also preserve cognitive function with age.”

via Heart Disease and Dementia: Same Cause? | Medical News and Health Information.