Scientists at the University of Miami have discovered an important clue about how blood pressure may affect the brain as people age.
Their research suggests that the lower number in a blood pressure reading, called the diastolic pressure, may help predict the risk of brain damage that can lead to memory loss, dementia, strokes, and even dangerous falls.
Blood pressure is recorded using two numbers. The top number, known as systolic pressure, measures the force of blood pushing against artery walls when the heart beats. The bottom number, called diastolic pressure, measures the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats.
For many years, doctors have focused mainly on the top number because it is strongly linked to heart disease and heart attacks. However, this new study shows that the lower number also plays a very important role, especially in protecting the brain.
To better understand this connection, the researchers studied 1,205 adults aged 50 and older. They measured each person’s blood pressure and performed MRI scans to examine their brains.
The scientists paid special attention to tiny areas of damage in the brain called white matter lesions. These small scars form when blood vessels become damaged and do not deliver enough oxygen to brain tissue.
White matter is made of nerve fibers that connect different parts of the brain. These connections allow the brain to send signals that control movement, thinking, emotions, and memory.
When white matter becomes damaged, communication inside the brain slows down or breaks apart. This can lead to balance problems, trouble thinking clearly, memory loss, and a higher risk of stroke.
The study found that people with lower diastolic blood pressure, below 80, had fewer white matter lesions than those with higher diastolic pressure above 90.
This suggests that keeping the lower blood pressure number within a healthy range may help protect the brain from long-term damage. The findings are important because they show that both blood pressure numbers matter, not just the top one.
Earlier research had already shown that high systolic pressure can narrow arteries and reduce blood flow to the brain, which contributes to these lesions.
This new study adds to that knowledge by showing that diastolic pressure also affects how well blood reaches sensitive brain areas that control memory and thinking. If the pressure is too high, it may damage delicate blood vessels over time.
White matter lesions are surprisingly common as people age. According to health experts, they can be found in many adults by their sixties and become even more common in people over ninety.
While small lesions may not cause symptoms right away, larger amounts of damage can increase the risk of dementia, walking problems, and falls that may lead to serious injuries.
Another important finding is that different parts of the brain receive blood from different arteries. If blood pressure is not well controlled, some areas may be harmed more than others. Understanding these patterns could help doctors develop better ways to protect brain health and prevent cognitive decline.
The researchers encourage adults to monitor their blood pressure regularly and work with their doctors to keep both numbers in a healthy range.
Healthy lifestyle choices such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing salt intake, and managing stress can all help control blood pressure. Taking prescribed medications as directed is also important when lifestyle changes alone are not enough.
This study highlights that protecting brain health is closely linked to protecting the heart and blood vessels. By paying attention to the often-overlooked lower blood pressure number, people may reduce their risk of dementia, stroke, and mobility problems later in life.
The research, led by Michelle R. Caunca and published in the journal Stroke, offers hope that better blood pressure management could help people stay mentally sharp and physically independent as they grow older.
If you care about dementia, please read studies about the power of healthy fats for brain health, and wild blueberries can benefit your heart and brain..
For more health information, please see recent studies about how eating nuts can affect your cognitive ability, and brain foods nourish your mind to outsmart dementia.
Copyright © 2026 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.
