The impact of hypertension on mortality and the risk of developing geriatric syndromes

Background. Hypertension (HTN) is a major risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease in young and middle age, however, data on its effect on cardiovascular risk in older adults are contradictory. Objective. To evaluate the impact of high blood pressure on mortality and the course of major geriatric syndromes in the population aged 65 years and older. Design and methods. The prospective cohort Crystal study (2 examinations, 9 years of follow-up), the cross-sectional cohort Eucalyptus study. Sample: a random sample of community-dwelling older adults aged 65 and older (n = 1007). Main parameters: blood pressure, analysis of drug treatment, medical history, laboratory tests, comprehensive geriatric assessment. Results. HTN has been identified as a risk factor for myocardial infarction, cognitive decline, slow gait speed and low muscle strength. However, in people with frailty and slow gait speed, the presence of HTN was associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality. The lowest risk of all — cause mortality in participants with a slow gait speed was found with systolic blood pressure 140-159 mm Hg [risk ratio (95 % confidence interval) 0,049 (0,009-0,283)], with frailty — with systolic blood pressure 160-180 mm Hg [risk ratio (95 % confidence interval) = 0,109 (0,016-0,758)]. Conclusions. HTN retains its negative predictive value in older adults and is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular complications, decreased cognitive and physical functions, but a lower risk of mortality in people with frailty and a low level of physical function. An individual approach and an obligatory assessment of the level of physical function in older patients are required when prescribing antihypertensive therapy.

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