Having had a prior heart attack may significantly accelerate the decline in memory and thinking skills over time, according to a study published in Stroke. The research, led by Mohamed Ridha, M.D., an assistant professor of neurology at The Ohio State University, highlights how cardiovascular disease can impact brain health.
In this comprehensive analysis, researchers examined the relationship between past heart attacks and cognitive function progression among more than 20,000 adults over a decade. Participants were initially evaluated for any history of heart attack using medical interviews and electrocardiograms. Over the study period, they underwent annual cognitive screenings with six questions to assess their mental acuity.
The analysis adjusted for various factors that could contribute to cognitive decline, including age, sex, race, education level, and other health conditions. The findings showed that individuals who had experienced a heart attack were at an average 5% higher risk of developing cognitive impairment each year compared to those without a history of heart attacks. This association was consistent across different demographic groups, including Black and white adults, as well as men and women.
Interestingly, the study also found that people with undiagnosed or "silent" heart attacks exhibited an accelerated rate of cognitive decline. Among women, silent heart attacks were more prevalent than diagnosed heart attacks or self-reported incidents.
"This study underscores a significant risk factor for cognitive impairment among heart attack survivors," said Dr. Ridha. "Clinicians caring for these patients should be proactive in providing guidance on strategies to mitigate cognitive decline and dementia."
The American Heart Association emphasizes the importance of maintaining optimal cardiovascular health through its Life's Essential 8 metrics, which include healthy behaviors and factors such as weight management, cholesterol control, blood pressure regulation, and diabetes management. This study adds further evidence linking good heart health with better brain function.
Elisabeth Marsh, M.D., FAHA, chair of the American Heart Association Scientific Statement on Brain Health Across the Lifespan, a prior heart attack may indicate broader vascular issues throughout the body. "Understanding this connection is crucial for developing targeted interventions to improve cognitive outcomes in patients who have experienced cardiovascular events," she added.
The AHA-Allen Initiative in Brain Health and Cognitive Impairment aims to address the growing burden of age-related cognitive decline by promoting research, education, and public health initiatives focused on both heart and brain health.
