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Hyperinsulinemia and cognitive decline in a middle-aged cohort
Sara E Young1, Arch G Mainous, Mark Carnemolla
1Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, South Carolina, USA. sayoung@mcg.edu
Diabetes Care
|November 30, 2006
Summary
High insulin levels in midlife are linked to poorer cognitive function and faster decline. This suggests insulin resistance is a modifiable risk factor for dementia prevention.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Endocrinology
- Public Health
Background:
- Cognitive decline and dementia are significant public health concerns.
- Type 2 diabetes and hyperinsulinemia are increasing with age.
- Identifying modifiable risk factors is crucial for dementia prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between hyperinsulinemia and cognitive decline in middle-aged adults.
- To examine if insulin resistance predicts cognitive decline in individuals without diabetes, dementia, or stroke.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) cohort, focusing on middle-aged adults (45-64 years).
- Assessment of fasting insulin and glucose levels, and cognitive function tests (delayed word recall, digit symbol subtest, word fluency) at baseline and 6-year follow-up.
- Linear regression models were used to determine associations, controlling for various demographic and health factors.
Main Results:
- Hyperinsulinemia, indicated by fasting insulin and HOMA, was significantly associated with lower cognitive test scores at baseline.
- Individuals with higher baseline insulin levels showed a greater decline in delayed word recall and word fluency over 6 years.
Conclusions:
- Insulin resistance in midlife is a potentially modifiable risk factor for cognitive decline.
- Findings suggest that managing insulin resistance may be a strategy for dementia prevention.
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