Prior Myocardial Infarction and Cognitive Decline: Insights from the REGARDS Cohort

Overview

Prior myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a prior heart attack, is increasingly recognized as more than a cardiovascular event. New evidence from the REGARDS cohort suggests that both clinically recognized and silent prior MIs are associated with a faster decline in global cognitive function over time. This finding is important because cognitive decline can affect memory, attention, decision-making, and independence in daily life.

The study adds to a growing body of research showing that heart and brain health are closely linked. Damage to the heart and blood vessels may reduce blood flow to the brain, increase the risk of small strokes or microvascular injury, and contribute to long-term cognitive changes. Even when a heart attack was never diagnosed at the time it occurred, it may still leave a measurable imprint on later brain health.