Middle age death risk

WOMEN who develop high blood pressure in middle age are significantly more likely to get dementia later in life.

The risk of dementia increased 73 per cent among women who started having blood pressure problems in their 40s.

The findings, based on a study of more than 7200 people in the US, reinforces growing evidence lifestyle in middle age has a marked impact on health in retirement.

Public health experts are increasingly worried about a sedentary and overweight generation of over-40s.