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Body Mass Index (BMI) and Cognitive Functions in Later Life
Yadollah A Momtaz1, Sharifah A Haron1, Tengku A Hamid1
1Malaysian Research Institute on Ageing (MyAgeing), Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor. Malaysia.
Body Mass Index (BMI) is linked to cognitive function in older adults. This association is influenced by height, suggesting targeted dementia prevention for shorter individuals.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Conflicting findings exist regarding the relationship between Body Mass Index (BMI) and cognitive function in the elderly.
- Previous research has not consistently clarified the role of height in this association.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between BMI and cognitive functions in older adults.
- To determine if height modifies the relationship between BMI and cognitive function.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from 2287 Malaysian adults aged 60 and above from a 2009 national health survey.
- Employed multiple linear regression and Factorial ANCOVA, adjusting for covariates.
Main Results:
- A significant positive association was found between BMI and cognitive function (Beta=.10, p<.001).
- A significant interaction effect between BMI and height on cognitive function was observed (F= 10.8, p<.001).
Conclusions:
- The positive association between BMI and cognitive function is dependent on an individual's height.
- Shorter individuals may benefit from targeted dementia prevention strategies.
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