Diabetes and hypertension may produce a cascading effect for future health challenges such as dementia—particularly among Black Americans, as reported by a recent study from the University of Georgia.
The research revealed that Black Americans diagnosed with both ailments during midlife exhibited significantly elevated levels of a dementia-associated biomarker more than ten years later.
“This is significant. This research indicates that chronic ailments like hypertension and diabetes, particularly when occurring together, could begin to harm the brain sooner than previously understood, notably for this demographic,” stated Rachael Weaver, corresponding author of the study and a graduate student in the UGA Franklin College of Arts and Sciences department of sociology.
“When these two conditions manifest together in midlife, they may initiate a chain reaction that accelerates brain aging even a decade down the line.”
Cardiovascular health might serve as an indicator of degenerative brain disorders like dementia
Historically, Black Americans experience cognitive decline at elevated rates and at younger ages compared to white individuals. Identifying physical conditions that hasten this decline is essential for enhancing quality of life and health outcomes, according to the researchers.
The study tracked over 250 participants with hypertension, diabetes, or both conditions.
Researchers discovered that while a single diagnosis did not indicate a significant neurological impact, the presence of both resulted in noteworthy findings.
“Taking proactive measures to manage high blood pressure and diabetes may aid in shielding African Americans from brain degradation and mitigate their risk of dementia.” —Karlo Lei, Franklin College of Arts and Sciences
Individuals with diabetes and hypertension during midlife had heightened levels of a biomarker linked to dementia. Both diagnoses not only contributed to increased amounts of that biomarker but also a larger rise over an 11-year span.
“The research conveys a clear message: Early intervention to manage high blood pressure and diabetes may significantly safeguard African Americans from brain deterioration and lower their risk of dementia in later years,” remarked Karlo Lei, co-author of the study and an associate professor in the Franklin College department of sociology.
The results imply that healthcare providers should prioritize cardiovascular health as a marker of dementia risk, particularly among Black Americans, the researchers suggested.
“This distinction is crucial as it highlights that strategies aimed at preventing or slowing cognitive decline in Black Americans may need to emphasize the prevention and management of vascular diseases beginning in midlife,” noted Mei Ling Ong, co-author of the study and an associate research scientist in the UGA Center for Family Research.
“Early interventions for these chronic health issues could considerably safeguard brain health and diminish the occurrence of neurodegenerative diseases in later life.”
Public health education in vulnerable communities essential
Many participants grappling with cardiovascular problems also reported low income levels. Approximately one in five participants had less than a 12th-grade education. This underscores a significant link between socioeconomic status and health results.
“Health disparities like those we are examining are not inevitable. They are deeply systemic and potentially preventable. Equally important as early screening and treatment is the need for reform that addresses the structural inequities placing Black Americans at increased risk initially,” stated Weaver.
Emphasizing the relationship between cardiovascular and brain health could also motivate individuals to engage in physical activity, lower stress, adopt healthier eating habits, and limit smoking and alcohol consumption, according to the researchers.
This study received funding from the National Institute on Aging and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. Co-authors include Steven Beach, Regents Professor of Psychology in the Franklin College; Yu-Wen Lu, a graduate student in the Franklin College; and the late Ron Simons, Regents Professor in the UGA Department of Sociology, who passed away in March. Additional co-authors include Michelle M. Mielke.
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