Blood pressure, smoking and alcohol use, association with vascular dementia

► High blood pressure is associated with later dementia, including vascular dementia. ► Smoking has been associated with increased risk of dementia/vascular dementia. ► Alcohol consumption may have a 'U'shaped relationship with dementia/vascular dementia. ► Research in this area has varying study designs, populations, follow-up and outcomes. ► Future research is needed to identify key levels, timing or duration of risk factors.