Effects of Antihypertensive Drug Treatment on Cognitive Function and the Risk of Dementia

INTRODUCTION
Hypertension has been associated with an increased risk of stroke, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease.1-10 Cerebral infarcts, lacunae, and white matter changes are implicated in the pathogenesis of vascular dementia, but also may lead to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.11 Microcirculatory disorders and endothelial dysfunction also may cause a deterioration in cognitive function in persons with hypertension.11 The Epidemiology of Vascular Aging study showed that hypertension is a major risk factor for severe white matter hyperintensities diagnosed by cer...