Association between metabolic syndrome and mild cognitive impairment and its age difference in a Chinese community elderly population

The circadian syndrome is a predictor for cognition impairment in middle-aged adults: Comparison with the metabolic syndrome

AIMS

Circadian syndrome (CircS) is considered a better predictor for cardiovascular disease than the metabolic syndrome (MetS). We aim to examine the associations between CircS and MetS with cognition in Chinese adults.

METHOD

We used the data of 8546 Chinese adults aged ≥40 years from the 2011 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study. MetS was defined using harmonised criteria. CircS included the components of MetS plus short sleep and depression. The cut-off for CircS was set as ≥4. Global cognitive function was assessed during the face-to-face interview.

RESULTS

CircS and MetS had opposite associations with the global cognition score and self-reported poor memory. Compared with individuals without the CircS and MetS, the regression coefficients (95%CI) for global cognition score were -1.02 (-1.71 to -0.34) for CircS alone and 0.52 (0.09 to 0.96) for MetS alone in men; -1.36 (-2.00 to -0.72) for CircS alone and 0.60 (0.15 to 1.06) for MetS alone in women. Having CircS alone was 2.53 times more likely to report poor memory in men (95%CI 1.80-3.55) and 2.08 times more likely in women (95%CI 1.54-2.81). In contrast, having MetS alone was less likely to report poor memory (OR 0.64 (0.49-0.84) in men and 0.65 (0.52-0.81) in women). People with CircS and MetS combined were more likely to have self-reported poor memory.

CONCLUSIONS

CircS is a strong and better predictor for cognition impairment than MetS in Chinese middle-aged adults. MetS without short sleep and depression is associated with better cognition.

Identification of a Link between Suspected Metabolic Syndrome and Cognitive Impairment within Pharmaceutical Care in Adults over 75 Years of Age

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cognitive impairment (CI) is increasing with age. MetS reduces overall cognition, and CI predicts an increased risk of drug-related problems. We investigated the impact of suspected MetS (sMetS) on cognition in an aging population receiving pharmaceutical care in a different state of old age (60-74 vs. 75+ years). Presence or absence of sMetS (sMetS+ or sMetS-) was assessed according to criteria modified for the European population. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score, being ≤24 points, was used to identify CI. We found a lower MoCA score (18.4 ± 6.0) and a higher rate of CI (85%) in the 75+ group when compared to younger old subjects (23.6 ± 4.3; 51%; p < 0.001). In the age group of 75+, a higher occurrence, of MoCA ≤ 24 points, was in sMetS+ (97%) as compared to sMetS- (80% p < 0.05). In the age group of 60-74 years, a MoCA score of ≤24 points was identified in 63% of sMetS+ when compared to 49% of sMetS- (NS). Conclusively, we found a higher prevalence of sMetS, the number of sMetS components and lower cognitive performance in subjects aged 75+. This age, the occurrence of sMetS and lower education can predict CI.

Risk Factors for Delirium after Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery under Total Intravenous Anesthesia in Parkinson's Disease Patients

BACKGROUND

Postoperative delirium (POD) is associated with perioperative complications and mortality. Data on the risk factors for delirium after subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) surgery is not clarified in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients receiving total intravenous anesthesia. We aimed to investigate the risk factors for delirium after STN-DBS surgery in PD patients.

METHODS

The retrospective cohort study was conducted, including 131 PD patients who underwent STN-DBS for the first time under total intravenous anesthesia from January to December 2021. Delirium assessments were performed twice daily for 7 days after surgery or until hospital discharge using the confusion assessment method for the intensive care unit. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to determine the risk factor of POD.

RESULTS

In total, 22 (16.8%) of 131 patients were in the POD group, while the other 109 patients were in the Non-POD group. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that preoperative Mini-mental State Examination score [odds ratio = 0.855, 95% confidence interval = 0.768-0.951, p = 0.004] and unified Parkinson's disease rating scale part 3 (on state) score (odds ratio = 1.061, 95% confidence interval = 1.02-1.104, p = 0.003) were independently associated with delirium after surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

In this retrospective cohort study of PD patients, a lower Mini-mental State Examination score and a higher unified Parkinson's disease rating scale part 3 (on state) score were the independent risk factors for delirium after STN-DBS surgery in PD patients under total intravenous anesthesia.

Sarcopenia and mild cognitive impairment among elderly adults: The first longitudinal evidence from CHARLS

BACKGROUND

The association between sarcopenia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among elderly adults in China remains unclear. The present study aimed to examine the association based on a nationally representative large-scale survey.

METHODS

The study used two waves of data from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) in 2015 and 2018. All subjects met the inclusion criteria were classified based on Asia Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria. Aging-associated cognitive decline is used to define MCI, and cognitive function is measured based on four dimensions: orientation, computation, memory, and drawing. OLS and logistic regression model were conducted to analyse the cross-sectional association between sarcopenia and different cognitive functions. Logistic regression model was conducted to analyse the longitudinal association between sarcopenia and MCI.

RESULTS

Totally, 5715 participants aged over 60 years (43.8% women; mean age 67.3 ± 6.0 years) were enrolled in a cross-sectional association study in 2015, and further 2982 elderly adults were followed up in 2018. During the period, sarcopenia and possible sarcopenia increased from 8.5% to 29.6%. Scores of cognitive and four dimensions (orientation, computation, memory, and drawing) exhibited a decreasing trend from non-sarcopenia to sarcopenia (P < 0.001). In the fully adjusted OLS regression model, scores of four dimensions were lower in possible sarcopenia and sarcopenia groups when compared with the non-sarcopenia group (P < 0.05) respectively. The incidence of MCI was 10.1%, 16.5%, and 24.2% for non-sarcopenia, possible sarcopenia, and sarcopenia groups from 2015 to 2018, with a significantly statistical difference (P < 0.001). Logistic regression model revealed an odds ratio of 1.43 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06-1.91, P = 0.017] for the possible sarcopenia group and 1.72 (95% CI: 1.04-2.85, P = 0.035) for sarcopenia group when compared with the non-sarcopenia group.

CONCLUSIONS

Sarcopenia is associated with worse cognitive impairment, which provided new evidence for a strong association that warrants further research into mechanistic insights.

Cognitive impairment assessed by Mini-Mental State Examination predicts all-cause and CVD mortality in Chinese older adults: A 10-year follow-up study

Objective

Cognitive impairment (CI) has been demonstrated as a useful proxy measure of mortality in Western populations. However, the predictive value of CI in Chinese populations is unknown. We aimed to explore whether CI is independently associated with increased long-term all-cause and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in Chinese older adults and the association of performance in specific MMSE sub-domains to subsequent mortality.

Methods and results

A total of 4,499 older adults [mean (SD) age, 70.3(6.7) years] who received a sample investigation from 2011 to 2014 were followed up till 2021 for mortality. The Mini-Mental State Examination was used to assess cognitive function, and Cox's proportional hazard models were used to evaluate the effects of cognitive function on the risk of all-cause and CVD mortality. Demographic characteristics, lifestyle, and health status were included as covariates. During a 10-year follow-up, a total of 667 (14.8%) died. In the fully adjusted model, compared with cognitively normal participants with CI had a 1.33-fold [HR, 1.33; (95% CI, 1.10-1.61)] greater risk of all-cause mortality and a 1.45-fold [HR, 1.45; (95% CIs, 1.11-1.92)] greater risk of CVD mortality. After a similar multivariable adjustment, a per-SD increase in MMSE scores was associated with a reduced risk of all-cause mortality [HR, 0.85; (95% CI, 0.78-0.93)] and CVD mortality [HR, 0.74; (95% CI, 0.65-0.84)]. In the unadjusted model, MMSE sub-domains (apart from immediate recall) were associated with mortality. But only orientation and calculation and attention were still independently associated with all-cause and CVD mortality in a multivariable model.

Conclusion

These findings confirmed that CI is a marker of all-cause and CVD mortality risk in Chinese older adults, independently of other commonly assessed risk factors, and some sub-domains of the MMSE may have stronger associations with mortality. Further research is needed to identify the mechanisms underlying the observed associations.

Neuroimaging and clinical characteristics of cognitive migration in community-dwelling older adults

BACKGROUND

Multiple neuroimaging and clinical biomarkers have been identified to predict cognitive decline and clinical progression to mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or dementia. However, early biomarkers associated with transition to and reversion from cognitive impairment (cognitive migration) require further understanding. We investigated the impacts of baseline neuroimaging and clinical biomarkers on cognitive migration in a community-dwelling older cohort.

METHODS

We studied 391 participants from the Wake Forest Alzheimer's Disease Research Center Clinical Core cohort who underwent neuropsychological assessment and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). At baseline, each participant was categorized to a functional/cognitive state using global Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) score: CDR = 0 indicates normal cognitive function; CDR = 0.5 is minimal cognitive impairment. The primary outcome was cognitive migration status determined by CDR change between baseline and follow-up (mean difference = 13.9 months): CDR-0 Stables (no migration; maintained CDR = 0), CDR-0.5 Stables (no migration; maintained CDR = 0.5), Migrants- (negative migration; CDR 0 to CDR 0.5), and Reverters+ (positive migration; CDR 0.5 to CDR 0). Baseline T1-weighted MRI was analyzed for gray matter (GM) volume using voxel-based morphometry (VBM). For VBM, we used a two-sample t-test controlling for age, sex, education years and intracranial volume for group comparisons: CDR-0 Stables vs CDR-0.5 Stables, CDR-0 Stables vs Migrants-, CDR-0.5 Stables vs Reverters+ and Migrants- vs Reverters+ (thresholded at k = 30 voxels, p <.01 uncorrected). Oral Glucose Tolerance Testing (OGTT-2h) assessed blood glucose 120-minute post challenge. Multinomial logistic regression estimated average predicted probabilities of cognitive migration status using OGTT-2h and age range (55-65, 65-75 and 75+) as predictors.

RESULTS

VBM analyses revealed lower GM volume in inferior and middle temporal gyri, hippocampus, parahippocampal gyrus, and superior and inferior frontal regions in Migrants- and CDR-0.5 Stables. Predicted probabilities indicated that individuals aged 55-65 with normal OGTT-2h levels were more likely to have better cognitive migration status (e.g., CDR-0 Stables or Reverters+) than those aged 75+ with high OGTT-2h.

CONCLUSIONS

Lower GM volumes and high OGTT-2h glucose levels may predict worse cognitive migration status in early stages of disease. The opposite is true for better cognitive migration. Validating these biomarkers may guide clinical diagnosis and treatments.

Short cognitive screening in elderlies as a part of advanced pharmaceutical care in Slovak community pharmacies - The pilot study KOGNIMET-SK

The aim of this study is to evaluate the implementation of a simple, easy-to-use cognitive screening test in the pharmaceutical care of elderly patients (aged 60 years and over) in community pharmacies and to test whether cognitive decline is associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS).

Current research has reported the increasing prevalence of MetS with age and indicated a link between cardiovascular risk factors and impairment of cognitive functions. We hypothesized that the short cognitive test realised in pharmaceutical care in community pharmacies could help identify risk groups of patients with potential cognitive decline. Because of the increasing pressure on primary care, collaboration between community pharmacists and general practitioners is essential, especially in preventive programmes and regarding chronically ill patients.

The study included 222 elderly patients aged 60 years and over reached between February 2018 and February 2019 in 16 community pharmacies in Slovakia. Criteria for the classification of MetS were used, following the International Diabetes Federation Worldwide Definition of MetS (2005) for European populations. Cognitive performance was evaluated using the Slovak version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment. The scale range of the MoCA test is 0–30 points, and the cut-off for cognitive impairment is ≤ 24 points.

Our outcomes show that the presence of metabolic syndrome only slightly contributes to the impairment of cognitive functions of patients receiving routine pharmaceutical care in community pharmacies. Cognitive assessment might be an important tool for identifying risk groups of patients that would benefit from a specific approach within the framework of pharmaceutical care.

Synergistic impact of diabetes and cognitive impairment on all-cause and cause-specific mortality in Chinese older adults: A prospective population-based cohort study

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) or cognitive impairment (CI) is known to be strongly associated with mortality. DM commonly coexists with CI and proportionally increases with age. However, little is known about the combined effect of cognitive function and diabetes on mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of DM and CI on all-cause and cause-specific mortality in Chinese older adults.

METHODS

This prospective population-based cohort study was based on the Beijing Elderly Comprehensive Health Cohort Study. A total of 4,499 older adults were included. Cox's proportional hazard models were utilized to calculate the effect of DM and CI on all-cause, cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality and cancer mortality, and a multiplicative term was introduced to study a potential interaction between DM and CI on outcomes.

RESULTS

During a median follow-up of 6.8 years (ranging from 6.6 to 11.7 years), 667 (14.8%) participants died from all causes, 292 from CVD, and 215 from cancer. In the fully adjusted model, participants with coexisting DM and CI had the highest risk of all-cause mortality [hazard ratios (HRs), 3.08; 95% confidence intervals (CIs), 2.30,4.11] and CVD mortality (HRs, 3.85; 95% CIs, 2.60,5.71) compared with individuals with normal cognition and non-DM. We also found a multiplicative interaction between DM and CI in respect to all-cause (HRs, 2.46; 95% CI, 1.87,3.22) and CVD mortality (HRs, 3.15 95% CI, 2.19,4.55). In the diabetic population, CI was associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality (HRs, 2.09; 95% CIs, 1.51,2.89) and CVD mortality (HRs, 3.16; 95% CIs, 2.02,5.05) compared with the normal cognition group. Restricted cubic spline revealed a linear inverse association between Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score and all-cause, CVD mortality in the total sample and participants without diabetes. However, a nearly reverse J association was observed between MMSE and mortality from all causes and CVD in the diabetes group.

CONCLUSION

The findings highlighted that cognitive impairment concomitant with diabetes further increases the risk of mortality. In addition to strengthening routine screening of cognitive functioning in older adults with early-stage diabetes, more extensive assessment of prognostic risks has high clinical value for developing comprehensive treatment plans.

Sarcopenia and Mild Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults from Six Low- and Middle-Income Countries

BACKGROUND

Little is known about the relationship between sarcopenia and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate this association among community-dwelling adults aged≥65 years from six LMICs.

METHODS

Cross-sectional, nationally representative data from the Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health (SAGE) were analyzed. These data were obtained in China, Ghana, India, Mexico, Russia, and South Africa in 2007-2010. Participants were considered to have sarcopenia if they had low skeletal muscle mass (i.e., lower skeletal mass index) and a weak handgrip strength. MCI was defined using the National Institute on Aging-Alzheimer's Association criteria. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess associations.

RESULTS

The final analytical sample consisted of 12,912 individuals aged≥65 years with preservation in functional abilities without stroke (mean [standard deviation] age 72.2 [10.8] years; 45.2% males). The overall prevalence of sarcopenia and MCI were 11.3% and 18.1%, respectively. After adjusting for potential confounders, there was a positive association between sarcopenia and MCI in all countries (i.e., odds ratio [OR] > 1) with the exception of South Africa, and the overall estimate was OR = 1.60 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.32-1.93) with a low level of between-country heterogeneity (I2 = 0.0%).

CONCLUSION

There was a positive association between sarcopenia and MCI in this sample of older adults living in LMICs. Causality should be assessed in future longitudinal research, while the utility of sarcopenia as a marker of MCI should also be investigated.

Longitudinal trajectories of metabolic syndrome on different neurocognitive domains: a cohort study from the Taiwan biobank

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) brings considerable effects on cognitive function, but trajectories within remain unclear. We investigated the interactions between distinct MetS components and cognitive domains. A total of 5693 participants from the Taiwan biobank during 2008–2018 were enrolled. Participants were classified as either normal or as having MetS at two time points; i.e., study entry and follow-up. At both the time points, cognitive evaluations using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) were conducted. The hazard ratios (HRs) of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia were higher in participants meeting more diagnostic components of MetS. Of the five criteria of MetS, three were significantly associated with MCI and dementia: high blood pressure (MCI: HR = 1.203, p < 0.001; dementia: HR = 1.345, p < 0.001), abdominal obesity (MCI: HR = 1.137, p = 0.006; dementia: HR = 1.442, p < 0.001), and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) level (MCI: HR = 1.149, p = 0.007; dementia: HR = 1.364, p < 0.001). Of the cognitive domains measured, three were significantly associated with MetS; namely, orientation, language, and visuospatial abilities. Participants who were initially diagnosed with MetS but were normal at follow-up had an HR of 1.374 for dementia (p = 0.019), which was beyond our expectations. The undiminished risk of cognitive decline in subjects returning to normal status illustrated that neural injury caused by MetS takes a long time to get repaired. Consequently, earlier detection and management of adjustable risk factors of MetS should be encouraged to minimize the damage.

Contribution of Components of Metabolic Syndrome to Cognitive Performance in Middle-Aged Adults

Introduction

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been associated with impaired cognition in different cognitive domains. This study investigated the association between MetS and cognitive functioning in middle-aged Bulgarians across different definitions of MetS severity.

Material and Methods

Our cross-sectional sample included 112 participants (67 free of MetS and 45 with MetS) with a mean age of 50.04 ± 3.31 years. The following MetS variables were considered—presence of MetS, continuously measured MetS components, dichotomized MetS components, number of MetS components present, and Metabolic Syndrome Severity Score (MSSS). Participants’ cognitive performance was assessed using the Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s Disease Neuropsychological Battery (CERAD-NB). We employed multivariate regression models to investigate the associations between different measures of MetS severity and CERAD-NB total and subtest scores.

Results

Bivariate analyses showed that the CERAD-NB total score was significantly higher in women, participants with a university degree, those with normal blood pressure, normal waist circumference, and low triglyceride levels, compared with their counterparts. MetS participants had lower CERAD-NB total score (78.87 ± 6.89 vs. 84.97 ± 7.84) and specifically performed poorer on the subtest Word List Recall (7.16 ± 1.52 vs. 7.99 ± 1.52). These findings persisted after controlling for age, gender, and education. Next, generalized linear regression indicated that the CERAD-NB total score was lower in participants with MetS (β = −4.86; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −7.60, −2.11), those with more MetS components (β = −8.31; 95% CI: −14.13, −2.50 for fours vs. 0 components) and with an increase in MSSS (β = −3.19; 95% CI: −4.67, −1.71). Hypertension independently contributed to lower CERAD-NB total score (β = −4.00; 95% CI: −6.81, −1.19).

Conclusions

Across several definitions, MetS was associated with lower cognitive functioning, and MetS severity appeared to be a better predictor than most MetS components. Recognizing and reducing severity of MetS components might be helpful in supporting cognitive functioning. Further longitudinal research is needed to shed more light on the relationship between MetS and cognitive functioning across the life span.

Cumulative Exposure to Metabolic Syndrome Components and the Risk of Dementia: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic disturbances are modifiable risk factors for dementia. Because the status of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its components changes over time, we aimed to investigate the association of the cumulative exposure to MetS and its components with the risk of dementia.

METHODS

Adults (n=1,492,776; ≥45-years-old) who received health examinations for 4 consecutive years were identified from a nationwide population-based cohort in Korea. Two exposure-weighted scores were calculated: cumulative number of MetS diagnoses (MetS exposure score, range of 0 to 4) and the composite of its five components (MetS component exposure score, range of 0 to 20). Hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) values for dementia were analyzed using the multivariable Cox proportional-hazards model.

RESULTS

Overall, 47.1% of subjects were diagnosed with MetS at least once, and 11.5% had persistent MetS. During the mean 5.2 years of follow-up, there were 7,341 cases (0.5%) of incident dementia. There was a stepwise increase in the risk of all-cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and vascular dementia with increasing MetS exposure score and MetS component exposure score (each P for trend <0.0001). The HR of all-cause dementia was 2.62 (95% CI, 1.87 to 3.68) in subjects with a MetS component exposure score of 20 compared with those with a score of 0. People fulfilling only one MetS component out of 20 already had an approximately 40% increased risk of all-cause dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

CONCLUSION

More cumulative exposure to metabolic disturbances was associated with a higher risk of dementia. Of note, even minimal exposure to MetS components had a significant effect on the risk of dementia.

Metabolic syndrome, ApoE genotype, and cognitive dysfunction in an elderly population: A single-center, case-control study

BACKGROUND

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is related to poor cognitive function. However, the results of previous studies were inconsistent, and whether the ApoEε4 allele modifies the association remains unclear.

AIM

To elucidate the relationships among MetS, ApoEε4, and cognitive dysfunction in an elderly population in China.

METHODS

One hundred elderly patients with MetS and 102 age- and gender-matched controls were included in the study. Baseline clinical characteristics and biochemical index for glucose and lipid metabolism were obtained. The distribution of ApoEε4 was assessed with PCR restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis. Cognitive function was evaluated by mini-mental status examination at the 1-year follow-up examination.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, MetS patients had worse cognitive function and decreased ability to participate in activities of daily life (P = 0.001 and 0.046, respectively). Patients with cognitive dysfunction had higher prevalence of MetS (62.1% vs 36.4%, P < 0.001) and were more likely to carry the ApoEε4 allele (22.3% vs 10.1%, P = 0.019). Multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that diagnosis with MetS, severe insulin resistance, status as an ApoEε4 carrier, higher systolic blood pressure, and larger waist circumference were risk factors for cognitive dysfunction (P < 0.05). Repeated-measures analysis of variance, performed with data collected at the 1-year follow-up, revealed continuous influences of MetS and ApoEε4 on the deterioration of cognitive function (time × team, P < 0.001 for both).

CONCLUSION

Diagnosis of MetS and ApoEε4 carrier status were persistently associated with cognitive dysfunction among an elderly population in China.

Body mass index and mild cognitive impairment among rural older adults in China: the moderating roles of gender and age

BACKGROUND

Evidence concerning the association between body mass index (BMI) and cognitive function among older people is inconsistent. This study aimed to investigate gender and age as moderators in association between BMI and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among rural older adults.

METHODS

Data were derived from the 2019 Health Service for Rural Elderly Families Survey in Shandong, China. In total, 3242 people aged 60 years and above were included in the analysis. Multilevel mixed-effects logistic regression was used to examine the moderating roles of gender and age, then further to explore the relationship between BMI and MCI.

RESULTS

There were 601 (18.5%) participants with MCI. Compared with normal BMI group, low BMI group had a higher risk of MCI among older people [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 2.08, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.26-3.44], women (aOR = 2.06, 95% CI: 1.35-3.12), or the older elderly aged ≥75 years old (aOR = 3.20, 95% CI: 1.34-7.45). This effect remained statistically significant among older women (aOR = 3.38, 95% CI: 1.69-6.73). Among older men, elevated BMI group had a higher risk of MCI (aOR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.17-4.61) than normal BMI group.

CONCLUSIONS

Gender and age moderated the association between BMI and MCI among Chinese rural older adults. Older women with low BMI were more likely to have MCI, but older men with elevated BMI were more likely to have MCI. These findings suggest rural community managers strengthen the health management by grouping the weight of older people to prevent the risk of dementia.

Carvalho O, Barros H. Global Cognitive Impairment Prevalence and Incidence in Community Dwelling Older Adults-A Systematic Review

(1) Background: We proposed to review worldwide estimates of cognitive impairment prevalence and incidence in adults older than 50 years of age living in the community. (2) Methods: Systematic searches were performed in January 2019 using MEDLINE/PubMed. Articles were selected if they referred to cognitive impairment, prevalence, incidence, elders, and population or community-based studies. Analysis, aggregated by different methodologic features, was performed. (3) Results: Prevalence (80 studies) ranged between 5.1% and 41% with a median of 19.0% (25th percentile = 12.0%; 75th percentile = 24.90%). Incidence (11 studies) ranged from 22 to 76.8 per 1000 person-years with a median of 53.97 per 1000 person-years (25th percentile = 39.0; 75th percentile = 68.19). No statistically significant effects were found except for inclusion age. (4) Conclusion: We propose that the homogenization and clarification of the definition of what constitutes cognitive impairment are essential to refine the epidemiological understanding of this entity. The results of this review reinforce the importance of adherence to standardized cut-off scores for cognitive tests to promote study comparability.

Prevalence of mild cognitive impairment is higher in hypertensive population: a cross-sectional study in less developed northwest China

Uncertainty remains about the association of hypertension with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in less-developed areas.This is a cross-sectional survey conducted in Xinjiang, a less-developed region in China between April and October 2019. We used multi-stage stratified sampling method to obtain study population aged ≥45 years, and we analyzed complete data for 3282 subjects. The Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to assess cognitive function. MCI is defined as an MMSE score < 17 for illiterate subjects, <20 for subjects with 1 to 6 years of education, and <24 for subjects with ≥7 years of education.The prevalence of MCI was significantly higher in hypertensive subjects than in non-hypertensive subjects (22.1% vs 16.1%, P < .001) and higher in hypertensives with uncontrolled blood pressure (BP) than in those with controlled BP (27.5% vs 20.7%, P = .01). Hypertensive subjects had significantly lower each item score and total score of MMSE, compared to non-hypertensive subjects. Significant negative correlations were observed between systolic and diastolic BP with MMSE scores (P for all <.001). Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that hypertension was the significant risk factor for the presence of MCI (OR = 1.62, 95%CI: 1.34, 2.35, P < .001), independent of such factors as gender, age, education attainment, and dyslipidemia.The prevalence of MCI is higher in hypertensive population, and hypertension is an independent risk factor for MCI in less-developed region, suggesting that hypertensives should be screened for MCI to provide improved diagnoses and optimal therapeutics for cognitive decline prevention, specially in settings with approximate conditions.

Changes in Metabolic Syndrome Status and Risk of Dementia

This study investigated the effects of changes in metabolic syndrome (MS) status and each component on subsequent dementia occurrence. The study population was participants of a biennial National Health Screening Program in 2009–2010 and 2011–2012 in Korea. Participants were divided into four groups according to change in MS status during the two-year interval screening: sustained normal, worsened (normal to MS), improved (MS to normal), and sustained MS group. Risk of dementia among the groups was estimated from the second screening date to 31 December 2016 using a Cox proportional hazards model. A total of 4,106,590 participants were included. The mean follow-up was 4.9 years. Compared to the sustained normal group, adjusted hazard ratios (aHR) (95% confidence interval) were 1.11 (1.08–1.13) for total dementia, 1.08 (1.05–1.11) for Alzheimer’s disease, and 1.20 (1.13–1.28) for vascular dementia in the worsened group; 1.12 (1.10–1.15), 1.10 (1.07–1.13), and 1.19 (1.12–1.27) for the improved group; and 1.18 (1.16–1.20), 1.13 (1.11–1.15), and 1.38 (1.32–1.44) for the sustained MS group. Normalization of MS lowered the risk of all dementia types; total dementia (aHR 1.18 versus 1.12), Alzheimer’s disease (1.13 versus 1.10), and vascular dementia (1.38 versus 1.19). Among MS components, fasting glucose and blood pressure showed more impact. In conclusion, changes in MS status were associated with the risk of dementia. Strategies to improve MS, especially hyperglycemia and blood pressure, may help to prevent dementia.

Metabolic Syndrome and Cognitive Function: Cross-Sectional Study on Community-Dwelling Non-Demented Older Adults in Japan

AIM

This is a cross-sectional study of relation between metabolic syndrome and cognitive function in community-dwelling non-demented older adults in Japan. We examine the effect of metabolic syndrome and its components on global cognitive function. We also aim to clarify differences of specific cognitive domains between the subjects with and without metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

We studied 2150 subjects aged between 60 and 90 years whose scores on mini mental state examination (MMSE) were over 23 points. We analyzed difference in MMSE scores between the subjects with and without metabolic syndrome. Logistic regression analysis was performed with MMSE score as the dependent variable and metabolic syndrome components as the independent variable adjusted with age. We also examined differences in attention, logical memory, and verbal and category fluency between the subjects with and without metabolic syndrome.

RESULTS

MMSE scores were not significantly different between subjects with and without metabolic syndrome. In logistic regression analysis, the score of MMSE was significantly negatively associated with triglycerides in males and significantly negatively associated with abdominal circumference in females. Subjects with metabolic syndrome showed significantly lower performance of attention tasks compared to subjects without metabolic syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that in community-dwelling non-demented Japanese older adults, attention but not global cognitive function may be impaired by metabolic syndrome. Inverted association between some components of metabolic syndrome and global cognitive function indicate necessity of further studies on the relation between undernutrition and cognitive function.

Association Between Individual Components of Metabolic Syndrome and Cognitive Function in Northeast Rural China

AIM

The aim of this article was to examine associations between metabolic syndrome and its individual components with cognitive function among rural elderly population in northeast China.

METHODS

Our study included 1047 residents aged older than 60 years in a northeast rural area. All were interviewed and data were obtained including sociodemographic and medical histories. Cognitive function was assessed by Mini-Mental State Examination. Metabolic syndrome was defined by NCEP-ATP III.

RESULTS

After adjusted for confounding factors, metabolic syndrome was inversely associated with cognitive function (odds ratio [OR] = 1.79; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06-3.01) especially in participants aged less than 70 years old (OR = 2.60; 95% CI: 1.27-5.26). In addition, participants with metabolic syndrome had worse language function, which is a part of cognitive function (OR = 2.64; 95% CI: 1.39-5.00). Individual metabolic syndrome components, especially abdominal obesity and hyperglycemia, had significant association with cognitive function (OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.56-0.92 and OR = 1.41; 95% CI: 1.12-1.78, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Abdominal obesity might be a protective factor for cognitive function. However, hyperglycemia might be a risk factor.

Cognitive Development in Patients with Bipolar Disorder and Metabolic Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To describe and discuss current evidence on the relationship between cognitive performance, Bipolar Affective Disorder (BAD) and Metabolic Syndrome (MS).

METHODS

We searched for related articles in different bibliographic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scielo) and performed a narrative review of the literature with the selected articles.

RESULTS

To date, evidence has not been conclusive and the effect of MS on BD has not been widely studied, but important correlations have been observed with individual metabolic variables. It is suggested that obesity in patients with BAD is associated wotj worse performance in verbal memory, psychomotor processing speed, and sustained attention. Hypertriglyceridemia in patients with BAD appears to be associated with a lower score in executive function tasks; hypertension appears to be associated with impairment in overall cognitive function.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite the associations between MS and poor cognitive performance in patients suffering from BAD, more studies are required to precisely determine how these variables are related to each other.

Relationship between folate, vitamin B12, homocysteine, transaminase and mild cognitive impairment in China: a case-control study

To explore the association between the levels of serum folate, vitamin B₁₂, and homocysteine (Hcy), transaminase and mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in Chinese elderly. A case-control study was implemented between April and October 2016. Elderly participants aged ≥60 with and without MCI (n = 118 separately) were recruited from Community Health Center of Binhai New Area in Tianjin. Spearman's correlation analysis indicated that Hcy was significantly positively correlated with alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and negative correlations were found among Hcy, Mini-Mental Status Examination score, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-Revised by China intelligence quotient, folate and vitamin B₁₂. The associations among MCI and folate, vitamin B₁₂, Hcy and transaminase were assessed using multivariate logistic regression analyses. Lower folate levels and higher Hcy and ALT and AST levels were associated with MCI risk adjusted for multiple covariates. Increased ALT, AST, Hcy levels and lower folate levels were independently associated with the risk of MCI.

A systematic review of existing peripheral biomarkers of cognitive aging: Is there enough evidence for biomarker proxies in behavioral modification interventions?: An initiative in association with the nutrition, exercise and lifestyle team of the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging

Peripheral biomarkers have shown significant value in predicting brain health and may serve as a useful proxy measurement in the assessment of evidence-based lifestyle behavior modification programs, including physical activity and nutrition programs, that aim to maintain cognitive function in late life. The aim of this systematic review was to elucidate which peripheral biomarkers are robustly associated with cognitive function among relatively healthy non-demented older adults. Following the standards for systematic reviews (PICO, PRIMSA), and employing MEDLINE and Scopus search engines, 222 articles were included in the review. Based on the review of biomarker proxies of cognitive health, it is recommended that a comprehensive biomarker panel, or biomarker signature, be developed as a clinical end point for behavior modification trials aimed at enhancing cognitive function in late life. The biomarker signature should take a multisystemic approach, including lipid, immune/inflammatory, and metabolic biomarkers in the biological signature index of cognitive health.

Independent association between subjective cognitive decline and frailty in the elderly

Background

The relationship between subjective cognitive decline and frailty, two components of the so-called reversible cognitive frailty, in the elderly remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate whether this association exists, independent of confounding factors such as nutritional status, kidney function, inflammation, and insulin resistance.

Methods

2386 participants (≥ 65 years of age) selected from the Healthy Aging Longitudinal Study in Taiwan (HALST) study. Fried frailty phenotype was adopted to quantify frailty status. We classified cognitive status into two categories—subjective cognitive decline (SCD), and normal cognition—and used polytomous logistic regressions to investigate the associations between SCD and frailty.

Results

There were 188 (7.88%), 1228 (51.47%), and 970 (40.65%) participants with frailty, pre-frailty, and robustness, respectively. Compared to those with normal cognition, elders with SCD were more likely to have pre-frailty (odds ratio [OR]: 1.36, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.10–1.67, p = 0.004) or frailty (OR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.23–2.58, p = 0.002) after adjusting for age, gender, education level, comorbidity, nutritional status, kidney function, and biochemical-related factors.

Conclusions

A significant association between subjective cognitive decline and frailty was revealed in this study. Subjective cognitive decline was positively associated with pre-frailty or frailty even after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Our results can provide useful references in understanding mechanisms and developing suitable preventive strategies for the elderly with reversible cognitive frailty.

Association between self-reported eating speed and metabolic syndrome in a Beijing adult population: a cross-sectional study

Background

Research on the relationship between metabolic syndrome (MetS), its components and eating speed is limited in China. The present study aimed to clarify the association between MetS, its components and eating speed in a Beijing adult population.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 7972 adults who were 18–65 years old and who received health check-ups at the Beijing Physical Examination Center in 2016. Logistic regression was conducted to explore the associations between MetS, its components and eating speed.

Results

The prevalence of MetS in this population was 24.65% (36.02% for males and 10.18% for females). Eating speed was significantly associated with a high risk for MetS, elevated blood pressure, and central obesity for both genders. Eating speed was associated with a high risk for elevated triglycerides and with a reduction in high-density lipoprotein in males, and eating speed was associated with a high risk for elevated fasting plasma glucose in females. Compared with slow eating speed, the multivariate-adjusted odds ratios of medium eating speed and fast eating speed for MetS were 1.65 (95% confidence interval 1.32–2.07) and 2.27 (95% confidence interval 1.80–2.86) for all subjects, 1.58 (95% confidence interval 1.21–2.07) and 2.21 (95% confidence interval 1.69–2.91) for males, and 1.75 (95% confidence interval 1.15–2.68) and 2.27 (95% confidence interval 1.46–3.53) for females, respectively.

Conclusions

Eating speed is positively associated with MetS and its components. Future recommendations aiming to prevent MetS and its components may focus on eating speed.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12889-018-5784-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Metabolic Syndrome and Neurocognition Among Diverse Middle-Aged and Older Hispanics/Latinos: HCHS/SOL Results

OBJECTIVE

Hispanics/Latinos have the highest risks for metabolic syndrome (MetS) in the U.S. and are also at increased risk for Alzheimer disease. In this study, we examined associations among neurocognitive function, MetS, and inflammation among diverse middle-aged and older Hispanics/Latinos.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Cross-sectional data (2008-2011) from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL) were analyzed to examine associations between neurocognition and MetS among diverse Hispanics/Latinos (N = 9,136; aged 45-74 years).

RESULTS

MetS status was associated with lower global neurocognition, mental status, verbal learning and memory, verbal fluency, and executive function. Age significantly modified the associations between MetS and learning and memory measures. Significant associations between MetS and neurocognition were observed among middle-aged Hispanics/Latinos, and all associations remained robust to additional covariates adjustment.

CONCLUSIONS

We found that MetS was associated with lower neurocognitive function, particularly in midlife. Our findings support and extend current hypotheses that midlife may be a particularly vulnerable developmental period for unhealthy neurocognitive aging.

Factors associated with cognitive impairment in elderly versus nonelderly patients with metabolic syndrome: the different roles of FGF21

Increased fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) levels have been found in patients with metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS is also associated with cognitive decline. However, the correlation between FGF21 and cognitive decline in elderly and nonelderly MetS patients has not been investigated. 116 non-elderly patients (age <65 years old) and 96 elderly patients (≥65 years old) with MetS were enrolled. Blood samples for FGF21 were collected from all participants after 12-hour fasting. Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA) test. The MoCA score was negatively associated with age and was different among different levels of education in these MetS patients. In the non-elderly group, body mass index (BMI) showed positively correlated with MoCA score while, FGF21 level and HbA1C were negatively associated with the MoCA score in non-elderly MetS patients. BMI was the only factor which showed a negative correlation with the MoCA score in elderly MetS patients. This study demonstrated that FGF21 level was independently associated with cognitive impairment in non-elderly patients but not in elderly patients. The possible role of FGF21 level in cognitive impairment in non-elderly should be confirmed in a prospective study.

Metabolic Syndrome and cognitive decline in the elderly: A systematic review

Background

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) refers to a cluster of metabolic disturbances which is associated with increased risk for vascular and degenerative conditions in general population. Although the relationship between vascular risk factors and dementia is undisputable, additional hazard for cognitive decline in older population with concurrent metabolic disorders still waits to be demonstrated. The present review aims to analyze data on MetS and risk for cognitive decline in elderly persons.

Methods

Database searches were performed in Medline, ISI and PsycINFO for articles assessing cognitive performances of older subjects with MetS.

Results

Of a total of 505 studies, 25 were selected for the review. Risk of selection biases was identified in all the studies. Although all articles followed recognized diagnostic recommendations for MetS, minor criteria modifications were detected in most of them. Hyperglycemia was consistently associated with impaired cognitive performances in older individuals, but the role of MetS for cognitive decline and for the onset of dementia showed heterogeneous results.

Discussion

Current available data in the literature concerning the impact of MetS on the cognition of older population is inconclusive and based on inconsistent evidence. Differential effects of individual MetS components and factors associated with the age of the sample may have accounted for divergent findings among articles, but larger and higher quality studies in this field are still needed.

Association of neck circumference and cognitive impairment among Chinese elderly

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the association between neck circumference (NC) and cognitive impairment and interactions between relevant variables to the risk of cognitive impairment.

METHODS

A population-based survey was conducted among elderly inhabitants aged 60 years and over from a community in Shanghai suburb. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate associations and log likelihood ratio tests to examine interactions.

RESULTS

Cognitive impairment was identified in 269 (10.8%) subjects from 2,500 participants. Higher BMI (OR = 1.55; 95% CI = 1.11-2.16), higher WHR (OR = 1.44; 95% CI = 1.07-1.95), and higher total cholesterol (TC) (OR = 1.52; 95% CI = 1.09-2.13) were significantly associated with the increased risk of cognitive impairment. Significant interactions were observed between TC and a few other relevant variables, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

NC was associated with the high risk of cognitive impairment. Additive effects of NC with TC on cognitive impairment were observed.

Impact of Worsened Metabolic Syndrome on the Risk of Dementia: A Nationwide Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

The relationship of alteration of metabolic syndrome (MetS) with dementia remains unclear. The purpose of study was to evaluate the association between dynamic change in MetS status around a 5-year period and dementia.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The cohort study was conducted from the Taiwanese Survey on Prevalence of Hypertension, Hyperglycemia, and Hyperlipidemia in 2002, with follow-up in 2007. The sample was subsequently linked to the National Health Insurance Research Database. Participants were divided into 3 groups: persistent MetS (MetS both in 2002 and 2007); nonpersistent MetS (MetS either in 2002 or 2007); and non-MetS (MetS neither in 2002 nor 2007). Furthermore, the individuals with nonpersistent MetS were categorized as improved MetS (MetS in 2002 but not in 2007) and worsened MetS (MetS not in 2002 but in 2007). Each participant was tracked until the end of 2011 to identify the development of dementia. In total, 3458 participants aged 40 to 80 years were included. Up to 10 years and 31 741 person-years of follow-up, 76 patients developed dementia. Only a relationship was found between the nonpersistent MetS and dementia (adjusted hazard ratio=1.93; 95% confidence interval =1.17-3.19; P=0.010). Moreover, a significantly higher dementia risk was observed in patients with worsened MetS (adjusted hazard ratio=2.22; 95% confidence interval=1.32-3.72; P=0.003), but not those with persistent (P=0.752) or improved (P=0.829) MetS. Similar results were detected in participants aged ≥65 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with worsened MetS had an increased dementia risk during the 10-year follow-up period in a population-based sample.

Relationship between serum uric acid level and mild cognitive impairment in Chinese community elderly

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the association between SUA levels within a normal to high range and the risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among community elderly.

METHODS

The present study was based on 2102 community elderly from a cross-sectional study conducted in a representative urban area of Beijing between 2009 and 2010. The mean age were 71.2 ± 6.6 years old, 59.7% were female. Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) was used to assess cognitive function by trained neurology doctors.

RESULTS

The prevalence of hyperuricemia and MCI was 16.7% and 15.9% respectively. With the increase of SUA levels, the prevalence of MCI showed a strong decreasing linear trend. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed ORs for MCI were 1.01(95% CI: 0.69-1.48), 1.50(95% CI: 0.85-2.64), 1.65(95% CI: 1.12-2.43) and 1.53(95% CI: 1.00-2.33), 1.84(95% CI: 1.27-2.90), 1.92(95% CI: 1.02-3.35) for the second, third and highest quarters among men and women respectively (with the lowest quartile as the reference).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher SUA levels, when in the normal range, were positively associated with cognitive function among Chinese community elderly, but this association was not robust among participants with hyperuricemia.

Association between Metabolic Syndrome and Cognitive Impairment after Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Cross-Sectional Study in a Chinese Population

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a risk factor for many vascular conditions, is associated with vascular cognitive disorders. The objective of the present study was to explore the associations of MetS and its individual components with the risks of cognitive impairment and neurological dysfunction in patients after acute stroke.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study enrolled 840 patients ranging in age from 53 to 89 years from the Tianjin area of North China. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Mini-Mental State Examination. Neuropsychiatric behavior was assessed using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire. Emotional state was examined according to the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, and neuromotor function was evaluated using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Barthel index, and the Activity of Daily Living test. After overnight fasting, blood samples were obtained to measure biochemistry indicators.

RESULTS

MetS and its individual components were closely correlated with MoCA score. MetS patients had high levels of inflammation and a 3.542-fold increased odds ratio (OR) for cognitive impairment [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.972-6.361]. Of the individual MetS components, central obesity (OR 3.039; 95% CI: 1.839-5.023), high fasting plasma glucose (OR 1.915; 95% CI: 1.016-3.607), and type 2 diabetes (OR 2.241; 95% CI: 1.630-3.081) were associated with an increased incidence of cognitive impairment. Consistent and significant worsening in different neurological domains was observed with greater numbers of MetS components.

CONCLUSIONS

MetS was associated with worse cognitive function, neuromotor dysfunction, and neuropsychological symptoms among Chinese acute stroke patients.

Prevalence and correlates of cognitive impairment and depression among elderly people in the world's fastest growing city, Chongqing, People's Republic of China

Background

Cognitive impairment and depression are major mental health problems affecting older people. The current study was designed to explore the prevalence of cognitive impairment and depression in representative sample of elderly people aged ≥60 years and to examine the correlates of cognitive impairment and depression with other sociodemographic variables.

Methods

A cross-sectional study based on comprehensive geriatric assessment of 538 elderly Chinese people was conducted from September 2011 to August 2012. Cognitive impairment was assessed using the Chinese version of Mini-Mental State Examination, and depressive symptoms were assessed by 30-item geriatric depression scale.

Results

The prevalence of cognitive impairment was 12.6%. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the following were significant independent predictors of cognitive impairment: female, having a low level of education, increasing age, and depression. The overall prevalence of depression was 24.3%, and in adjusted model, cognitive impairment was only associated with increased risk of depression.

Conclusion

Cognitive impairment and depression are prevalent in elderly Chinese people. Among a number of factors identified in our study, cognitive impairment and depression were highly correlated in elderly people aged ≥60 years.

The association between the prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension and the risk of mild cognitive impairment in an elderly urban population in China

It remains unclear whether lowering the blood pressure effectively prevents cognitive impairment. The aim of the current study was to explore the association between the prevalence, treatment and control of hypertension and the risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among elderly Chinese people. This is a cross-sectional study conducted in Beijing, China. A two-stage stratified clustering sampling method was used, and 2065 participants, aged ⩾60 years, were included in the analysis. The Mini-Mental State Examination was used to assess participants' cognitive function. The prevalence of MCI was higher in hypertensive (16.5%) than in normotensive individuals (13.1% P=0.043). Furthermore, in those hypertensive patients, the prevalence of MCI was lower in those treated (14.9%) than in those not treated (19.9% P=0.019) and lower in those controlled (13.4%) than in those uncontrolled (17.9% P=0.042). The adjusted odds ratio (OR; 95% confidence interval (CI)) of having MCI was 1.59 (1.07–2.35) in those with hypertension compared with those normotensive individuals. The assessment of the hypertensive patients revealed the adjusted OR (95% CI) of having MCI in those with treated hypertension was 0.60 (0.42–0.86) compared with those untreated hypertension, and in those with controlled hypertension was 0.64 (0.43–0.93) compared with those non-controlled hypertension (regardless of treatment). However, among the treated hypertensive patients, there was no difference in the prevalence of MCI between the patients who reached and those who did not reach their treatment goal. We suggest that improved diagnoses and optimal therapeutics are needed to achieve the aim of cognitive decline prevention.