Researchers involved in a large-scale study of women’s health issues say keeping blood pressure in check is critical to reducing the risk of various health conditions, including dementia.

The Women’s Health Initiative Memory Study followed women aged 65 and older for several years. They had their blood pressure measured, took several cognitive and memory tests, and underwent magnetic resonance imaging upon entering the trial and throughout their participation in it.

The study found that women who had elevated blood pressure had significantly higher amounts of white matter lesions (WMLs) in their brains. Previous studies have found that these WMLs are a risk factor for dementia.

"It would be prudent for women to keep their blood pressure low, and the earlier in life they start doing so, the better. At present, keeping blood pressure at normal levels is probably the most effective way we know of to prevent dementia from occurring," said study co-author Dr Sylvia Wassertheil-Smoller.

According to the American Heart Association, hypertension increases the risk for heart attack, angina, stroke, kidney failure and peripheral artery disease. In addition to lifestyle changes like weight loss and exercise, supplements containing potassium, calcium, fish oil, magnesium and garlic may help prevent it.