Does BP Modification Correlate With Cognitive Change in PSCI?

Background: Studies have shown that post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) is impacted by systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels in the first 7 days in a U-shaped manner with both lower and higher levels having an increased risk. The optimal timing for initiating antihypertensive treatment with regard to cognitive outcome is unclear. Objective: To compare the effects of early versus delayed antihypertensive treatment using the China Antihypertensive Trial in Acute Stroke II (CATIS-2). Design/Participants: Randomized, open-label trial conducted at 106 hospitals in China including 4810 patients, aged ≥40 years, with acute ischemic stroke verified on CT or MRI within 24 to 48 hours of symptom onset. Methods: SBP had to be 140 to 219 mm Hg. Exclusion criteria were dementia, atrial fibrillation, and prior treatment with thrombolysis or endovascular thrombectomy. Participants were randomly assigned to early or delayed antihypertensive treatment groups. Early was immediate treatment and dela more...