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The relationship between cognitive function and body mass index in multiple sclerosis patients
Mahsa Owji1, Amir Ashraf-Ganjouei1, Mohammad Ali Sahraian1
1Multiple Sclerosis Research Center; Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Multiple Sclerosis and Related Disorders
|April 29, 2019
Summary
Obesity, measured by body mass index (BMI), is linked to poorer cognitive function in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, particularly on specific tests. This suggests weight management may be important for cognitive health in MS.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- Cognitive impairment significantly impacts the quality of life for many multiple sclerosis (MS) patients.
- Obesity is a known factor associated with cognitive decline in the general population.
- Understanding the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and cognitive function in MS is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and cognitive performance in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).
- To utilize the Minimal Assessment of Cognitive Functions in MS (MACFIM) battery to assess cognitive function.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-one patients diagnosed with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) were included in the study.
- Demographic data, height, weight (for BMI calculation), and Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores were collected.
- Cognitive function was assessed using the MACFIMS battery in a single session.
Main Results:
- A negative correlation was observed between BMI and scores on the Paced Auditory Serial Addition Test (PASAT) (P=0.005) and the Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT) (P=0.037).
- The correlation between PASAT scores and BMI remained significant after controlling for sex, age, and EDSS.
- No significant difference in BMI was found between MS patients with and without cognitive deficits.
Conclusions:
- Body mass index (BMI) is associated with impaired performance on certain cognitive tests within the MACFIMS battery in MS patients.
- Obesity may represent a modifiable factor influencing cognitive performance in individuals with multiple sclerosis.
- Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms linking obesity and cognitive function in MS.
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