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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

Natural progression model of cognition and physical functioning among people with mild cognitive impairment and

Ron L H Handels1, Weili Xu, Debora Rizzuto

  • 1Alzheimer Centre Limburg, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNS), University Medical Centre, Maastricht, The Netherlands.

Journal of Alzheimer'S Disease : JAD
|August 17, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may develop Alzheimer's disease (AD) within 3.5 years. Cognitive and physical functions decline post-AD onset, informing intervention evaluations.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Neuroscience
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Empirical models are crucial for evaluating Alzheimer's disease (AD) interventions.
  • Understanding the natural history of AD is essential for clinical trial design.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To estimate Alzheimer's disease-free survival time in individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
  • To quantify the decline in cognitive and physical function in diagnosed AD cases.

Main Methods:

  • Longitudinal study of a cohort aged ≥75, identifying incident MCI and AD cases over 9 years.
  • Assessed global cognitive function using Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and daily living activities (ADL).
  • Analyzed data using parametric survival analysis and mixed-effects models.

Main Results:

  • Median AD-free survival time for MCI was 3.5 years.
  • Cognitive decline averaged 1.84 MMSE points/year, associated with age.
  • Physical functioning declined by 0.38 ADL points/year, linked to age, education, and MMSE scores.

Conclusions:

  • Elderly individuals with MCI may progress to AD in approximately 3.5 years.
  • Both cognitive and physical functions show gradual decline after AD onset.
  • Empirical models derived from this study can aid in assessing long-term AD intervention efficacy.

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