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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
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A Methodological Approach to Non-invasive Assessments of Vascular Function and Morphology
Published on: February 7, 2015
Carotid intima-media thickness and cognitive function in elderly women: a population-based study
Pirjo Komulainen1, Miia Kivipelto, Timo A Lakka
1Kuopio Research Institute of Exercise Medicine, Kuopio, Finland. pirjo.komulainen@uku.fi
Neuroepidemiology
|September 14, 2007
Summary
Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) predicts cognitive decline in elderly women. Higher IMT is linked to poorer memory and slower cognitive speed over 12 years.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Gerontology
Background:
- Vascular risk factors are associated with cognitive decline.
- The link between atherosclerosis and cognitive impairment requires further investigation.
- Carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) is a marker of atherosclerosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if carotid IMT predicts cognitive impairment risk in elderly women.
- To assess if IMT is associated with specific cognitive domains, namely memory and cognitive speed.
Main Methods:
- A 12-year population-based follow-up study involving 91 women aged 60-70.
- Carotid artery IMT measured via ultrasonography at baseline and follow-up.
- Cognitive function assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination and detailed memory/cognitive speed evaluations.
Main Results:
- Increased baseline carotid IMT independently predicted poorer memory and cognitive speed at 12-year follow-up.
- The risk for impaired memory and cognitive speed increased with higher IMT tertiles.
- These associations remained significant after adjusting for multiple cardiovascular and lifestyle factors.
Conclusions:
- Carotid IMT is a significant predictor of cognitive impairment in elderly women.
- Specifically, higher IMT is associated with increased risk of poor memory and reduced cognitive speed.
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