The incidence of MCI differs by subtype and is higher in men: the Mayo Clinic Study of Aging

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Updated: May 25, 2026

A Machine Learning Approach to Design an Efficient Selective Screening of Mild Cognitive Impairment
12:18

A Machine Learning Approach to Design an Efficient Selective Screening of Mild Cognitive Impairment

Published on: January 11, 2020

R O Roberts1, Y E Geda, D S Knopman

  • 1Division of Epidemiology, Department of Health Sciences Research, College of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA. roberts.rosebud@mayo.edu

Neurology
|January 28, 2012
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) incidence is substantial, with higher rates in men and for amnestic MCI (aMCI) versus nonamnestic MCI (naMCI). Further research into sex-specific and subtype-specific risk factors is recommended.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Epidemiology
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is a growing concern in aging populations.
  • Previous studies have reported MCI incidence, but few used standardized criteria for subtypes.
  • Understanding MCI incidence is crucial for developing targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To estimate the incidence of amnestic MCI (aMCI) and nonamnestic MCI (naMCI).
  • To analyze incidence rates separately for men and women.
  • To apply published criteria for accurate MCI subtype classification.

Main Methods:

  • Population-based prospective cohort study in Olmsted County, MN.
  • Inclusion of residents aged 70-89 years at baseline (October 1, 2004).
  • Annual evaluations including Clinical Dementia Rating, neurologic exams, and neuropsychological testing; blinded panel review for diagnosis.

Main Results:

  • Among 1,450 cognitively normal individuals, 296 developed MCI.
  • Overall MCI incidence rate was 63.6 per 1,000 person-years.
  • Higher incidence in men (72.4) vs. women (57.3), and for aMCI (37.7) vs. naMCI (14.7).
  • aMCI and naMCI incidence higher in men and individuals with ≤12 years of education.

Conclusions:

  • MCI incidence rates are significant.
  • Sex and subtype differences in MCI incidence suggest distinct risk factor profiles.
  • Investigating risk factors separately for aMCI and naMCI in men and women is warranted.

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