Weill Cornell Medicine researchers have found that intracranial hemorrhages, or “brain bleeds,” double the risk of developing dementia later in life. While ischemic strokes have long been linked to cognitive decline, this study highlights similar risks for hemorrhages.
Analyzing Medicare data from 2008-2018, researchers found that patients who suffered spontaneous brain bleeds were twice as likely to be diagnosed with dementia within 5.6 years. Scientists believe hemorrhages may trigger amyloid beta buildup in the brain, a key factor in dementia.
Experts stress the need for routine cognitive screenings in hemorrhage survivors and further research on safe Alzheimer’s treatments for these patients. The findings underscore the importance of new therapies to improve long-term outcomes.
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