Dementia in diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis: Two interrelated systemic diseases

Parvaneh Mohseni-Moghaddam1, Roshanak Ghobadian2, Hossein Khaleghzadeh-Ahangar3

  • 1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran.

Brain Research Bulletin
|January 30, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Systemic disorders like diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis are linked to dementia, a cognitive decline common in the elderly. Identifying these treatable conditions is crucial for managing dementia development.

Area of Science:

  • Neurology
  • Internal Medicine
  • Geriatrics

Background:

  • Dementia, characterized by cognitive and memory decline, affects many elderly individuals.
  • While neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's are common causes, systemic disorders also contribute significantly.
  • Identifying treatable systemic causes of dementia is critical for effective patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of the relationship between systemic disorders and dementia development.
  • To specifically examine the established links between diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, and dementia.
  • To detail the underlying mechanisms contributing to dementia pathogenesis through these systemic conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of previously published articles.
  • Analysis of established associations between diabetes mellitus, atherosclerosis, and dementia.
  • Detailed discussion of the pathogenetic mechanisms linking these disorders.

Main Results:

  • Systemic disorders, particularly diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis, are significantly associated with dementia.
  • These systemic conditions share established links with each other and with the development of dementia.
  • The article elaborates on the intricate mechanisms through which these disorders contribute to dementia.

Conclusions:

  • Systemic disorders represent a significant, often treatable, cause of dementia.
  • Understanding the interplay between diabetes, atherosclerosis, and dementia is key for therapeutic strategies.
  • Further research into these mechanisms can lead to novel approaches for dementia prevention and treatment.

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