Dementia Risk: Mugwort and Your Brain Health
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Elevated Blood Pressure, Even before Hypertension, Linked to Increased Dementia Risk
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Published December 4, 2023, updated December 4, 2025, 20:18:12 PST
By Kim Eun-jin, Nongmin
Key Findings: Elevated Blood Pressure and dementia
A new study published in the European Heart Journal (Impact Factor: 35.6) demonstrates a link between elevated blood pressure – defined as higher than normal, but not yet hypertension – and an increased risk of developing dementia, particularly vascular dementia. This research,conducted by a team at Hallym University Medical Center,is the first of its kind to show this connection in a large population.
Professor Lee, the corresponding author of the study, emphasized the importance of proactive blood pressure management. “Even before being diagnosed with high blood pressure, you need to actively manage your blood pressure to protect your cerebrovascular health. In particular, middle-aged people and women need to take even the slightest increase in blood pressure as an early warning sign of dementia.”
Understanding Blood Pressure Classifications
The European Society of Cardiology redefined the pre-hypertension range as ‘elevated blood pressure’ in 2023 and now recommends early management strategies.This shift in terminology reflects a growing understanding of the risks associated with blood pressure levels previously considered within the normal range.
| Blood Pressure Category | Systolic (mmHg) | Diastolic (mmHg) |
|---|---|---|
| Normal | Less than 120 | Less than 80 |
| Elevated | 120-129 | Less than 80 |
| High Blood pressure (Hypertension) Stage 1 | 130-139 | 80-89 |
| High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Stage 2 | 140 or higher | 90 or higher |
| Hypertensive Crisis | Higher than 180 | Higher than 120 |
Source: American Heart Association, Understanding Blood Pressure
Vascular Dementia: A Closer Look
Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. It occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, leading to brain cell damage.