A new scientific statement released by the American Heart Association (AHA) emphasizes the crucial connection between heart health and brain function, particularly as we age, CNN reports.
“Dementia is often perceived as an incurable and inevitable disease,” said Dr. Fernando Testai, professor of neurology and rehabilitation at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago and chair of the statement writing group. “However, evidence strongly suggests that adopting a healthy lifestyle and addressing cardiovascular risk factors early in life can significantly preserve brain health and mitigate the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.”
The AHA’s statement underscores the alarming fact that nearly 130 million adults in the United States are living with some form of heart disease. It urges a proactive approach to heart health, emphasizing that healthy habits should be established early, even before birth.
The Impact of Heart Disease on the Brain
Coronary heart disease, characterized by plaque buildup in arteries, is the leading cause of death globally. This condition can significantly impact brain function, as the narrowing of arteries restricts blood flow and damages small blood vessels in the brain, contributing to cognitive impairment.
High blood pressure and type 2 diabetes further exacerbate the issue, reducing blood flow to the brain and promoting inflammation, leading to cognitive decline and dementia. The AHA statement reports that individuals with coronary heart disease face a 27% increased risk of developing dementia compared to those without heart disease.
Heart Attack and Brain Health
The AHA estimates that someone in the United States experiences a heart attack every 40 seconds. Sadly, up to 50% of heart attack survivors experience a decline in brain function, with some experiencing a sharp deterioration into cognitive impairment.
Heart failure, a more severe form of heart disease, also presents a significant risk for cognitive decline. According to the AHA statement, up to 81% of people with heart failure exhibit cognitive decline affecting their memory, language, and ability to think and plan.
Atrial Fibrillation and Brain Health
Atrial fibrillation (A-fib), a common irregular heartbeat, is the leading cause of stroke in the United States. The AHA statement highlights that strokes associated with A-fib tend to be more severe than those caused by other underlying conditions.
Furthermore, small brain bleeds, known as microhemorrhages, which contribute to cognitive decline, are more prevalent in individuals with A-fib. People with A-fib have a 39% increased risk of experiencing memory or thinking problems. With an estimated 16 million Americans projected to have A-fib by 2050, this presents a growing public health concern.
The Bottom Line: Protect Your Heart, Protect Your Brain
The AHA’s new scientific statement provides a stark reminder of the inseparable link between heart health and brain function. By prioritizing a healthy lifestyle, addressing cardiovascular risk factors early, and seeking prompt medical attention for any heart-related concerns, individuals can significantly lower their risk of developing dementia and other cognitive decline. The message is clear: a healthy heart is the foundation of a healthy mind.
