Hypertensive disorders during pregnancy and later dementia: is there a connection?

Abstract Hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are associated with later hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cerebral white-matter lesions and cognitive decline. These conditions are also linked to Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Because of genetic similarities between some forms of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy and dementia, the question arises of whether there is an association between these two conditions. Available studies are few, use different methods, and have limitations such as self-reported data, small size, or follow-up that is too short. They also come to different conclusions. Recently a large study of around 1 million women was published showing that preeclampsia was especially associated with an increased risk of vascular dementia, confirming a previous, smaller study. Adjustment for cardiovascular disease only slightly attenuated the association. Therefore, and regarding the biological plausibility of a link between preeclampsia and dementia, it is possible that women with previous preeclampsia may benefit from screening for early signs of dementia.