Hemodynamic and serum cardiac markers and risk of cognitive impairment and dementia

Introduction Cardiac function is a key player in maintaining energy homeostasis in the brain. Heart failure is closely related to higher risk of neurocognitive disorders. Recent evidence shows that this relationship might not be limited to patients with advanced heart failure, and even suboptimal cardiac functioning is associated with accelerated brain aging. Hence, hemodynamic and serum cardiac markers may provide valuable information about the risk of dementia. Methods We provide an overview on the link between cardiac markers and cognitive function by a systematic search in five databases. Furthermore, we discuss the pathophysiological aspects of this link and highlight the pertinent clinical and public health implications. Results Increasing evidence supports the associations of hemodynamic and serum cardiac markers with accelerated cognitive decline. Discussion Hemodynamic and serum cardiac markers are closely linked with risk of cognitive impairment. This highlights the significance of the heart–brain connection in reducing the burden of dementia.