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Racial Differences in Cognitive Function and Risk of Incident Stroke
Kumar B Rajan1, Julie A Schneider2, Neelum T Aggarwal2
1Rush Institute for Healthy Aging, Department of Internal Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL.
Summary
Cognitive impairment increases stroke risk, particularly in Black individuals. This study found the association between lower cognitive function and stroke risk was significantly stronger in Black adults compared to White adults.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
- Gerontology
Background:
- Cognitive impairment is a known risk factor for stroke.
- Racial disparities in the association between cognitive function and stroke risk are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between cognitive function and stroke risk in non-Hispanic Black and White individuals without a prior stroke history.
Main Methods:
- A population-based cohort of 7205 older adults was studied.
- Cognitive function was assessed using a composite score (global cognition, executive function, episodic memory).
- Stroke risk was determined using Cox models and Medicare hospitalization data.
Main Results:
- Lower composite cognitive function was associated with a higher risk of stroke in both racial groups.
- The association was significantly stronger in Black individuals (HR=1.76) compared to White individuals (HR=1.38).
- Lower episodic memory showed a twofold higher stroke risk in Black individuals than in White individuals.
Conclusions:
- Reduced cognitive function is linked to increased stroke risk.
- This association is more pronounced in Black individuals than in White individuals.
- Further research is needed to identify underlying factors contributing to this racial disparity.
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