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Cognitive function after 11.5 years of alcohol use: relation to alcohol use
Iracema Leroi1, Jeannie-Marie Sheppard, Constantine G Lyketsos
1Neuropsychiatry Service, Department of Psychiatry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
American Journal of Epidemiology
|October 9, 2002
Summary
Moderate alcohol consumption was linked to slower cognitive decline over 11.5 years. This protective effect was more pronounced in women, suggesting potential benefits for cognitive health.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Cognitive decline is a significant concern in aging populations.
- The relationship between alcohol consumption and cognitive function remains debated.
- Longitudinal studies are crucial for understanding these complex interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between alcohol use and cognitive decline over an 11.5-year period.
- To examine differences in this association based on sex and drinking patterns.
- To analyze cognitive changes using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE).
Main Methods:
- A community sample of 1,488 participants from the Baltimore Epidemiologic Catchment Area study.
- Cognitive function assessed using the MMSE at three time points (1981, 1982, 1993-1996).
- Participants categorized into five groups based on alcohol intake and DSM-IIIR alcohol use disorders; analysis of variance used, adjusted for age, race, and education.
Main Results:
- Alcohol drinkers showed significantly less cognitive decline compared to non-drinkers in both sexes.
- A trend towards significantly less cognitive decline was observed in women drinkers after adjustments.
- Among women, habitual alcohol use showed a trend toward less cognitive decline compared to non-users or heavy users.
Conclusions:
- Alcohol use over long periods is not associated with cognitive decline.
- In women, alcohol consumption may be associated with a reduced rate of cognitive decline.
- Findings suggest a potential neuroprotective role of moderate alcohol intake, particularly in women.