🧠High Blood Pressure Awareness Is Dropping. That’s Bad News for Brain Health
 A growing number of Americans don’t know they have high blood pressure—a key risk factor for dementia. 💓ðŸ§
Published In: JAMA Cardiology
Date: June 2024
Authors: Fang, et al.
Link to Study: Read the study
Summary
New research highlights a troubling decline in high blood pressure (hypertension) awareness among American adults from 2013 to 2023. This is especially concerning for brain health, as mid-life hypertension is a major modifiable risk factor for dementia. The sharpest drop in awareness occurred among adults aged 20–44, suggesting early prevention efforts may be faltering.
Key Takeaways
✅ Hypertension awareness fell from 85% to 82% overall in the past decade.
✅ Among younger adults (20–44), unawareness rose from 22% to 37%—a 69% increase.
✅ Women experienced a drop in awareness, while men’s levels remained stable.
✅ Awareness of diabetes and cholesterol did not change significantly.
✅ 1 in 6 adults with high blood pressure didn’t know they had it by 2023.
Why It Matters for You
High blood pressure in mid-life can increase your risk of developing dementia later on. Knowing and managing your blood pressure is a powerful step toward protecting your long-term brain health.
Citation
Fang, J., et al. (2024). Trends in Awareness of Hypertension, Diabetes, and Hypercholesterolemia in US Adults, 2013-2023. JAMA Cardiology. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamacardio.2024.1647