Epidemiology of Hypertension and Brain Disease

Abstract

Hypertension is the most prevalent cardiovascular disorder affecting 20–50 % of the adult population in developed countries. There are considerable differences in the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of hypertension worldwide. Elevated BP is the strongest modifiable risk factor for stroke, both ischemic and hemorrhagic. About 54 % of strokes all over the world are attributed to high BP (systolic BP > 115 mmHg). The prevalence and incidence of stroke in the general population increases with age and is directly related to BP levels. The prevalence of dementia shows a strong increase with age from 5 % at the age of 65 years to 20 % at the age of 80 years and 40 % at the age of 90 years. However, the link between BP and cognitive function is complex. Hypertension predisposes to cognitive decline and dementia, although BP commonly decreases when dementia develops.