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Treatment

Blood pressure and vascular health

Quick answer

Vascular risk factor control is one of the few measures with evidence for reducing dementia risk.

Author:
Illinois Dementia Guide editorial team
Medically reviewed by:
Amarish Dave, DO, Board Certified Neurologist
Published:
August 2026
Last medically reviewed:
August 2026
Geographic relevance:
Illinois, United States

Overview

Blood vessel health affects every type of dementia, and vascular contributions are present in many people with Alzheimer's disease.

What to manage

  • Blood pressure to the target your clinician sets
  • Diabetes and A1c
  • Cholesterol
  • Atrial fibrillation
  • Smoking cessation
  • Sleep apnea

Caution

In older adults, blood pressure that is too low can cause dizziness and falls. Targets are individualized.

Medically reviewed. Last reviewed August 2026. This page is educational information, not individualized medical advice.

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