Abstract
<jats:p>Introduction. Hypertension (AH) is one of the most common chronic diseases with a significant impact on brain structure and function. Cognitive impairment in AH often remains underestimated, especially in the early stages. Purpose. To study the effect of elevated blood pressure on cognitive function in patients of different age groups. Materials and methods. 36 patients were examined, divided into three age groups (18-49 years old, 50-60 years old, 60-70 years old) with the presence and absence of hypertension. Used: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), clock drawing test, Schulte test, frontal dysfunction battery (FAB), verbal fluency score. Results. Patients with hypertension aged 50-70 years showed a statistically significant decrease in cognitive indicators compared to normotonics. The greatest decrease was noted in the groups with comorbidity (AH + diabetes mellitus). Taking antihypertensive therapy was associated with better outcomes in the Schulte test and verbal fluency. Conclusion. High blood pressure has a negative impact on cognitive function, especially in older age groups and in the presence of concomitant diseases. Early screening for cognitive impairment is indicated in patients with AH older than 49 years.</jats:p>