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Evaluation of Adiposity and Cognitive Function in Adults
Sonia S Anand1,2, Matthias G Friedrich3, Douglas S Lee4,5
1Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University and Hamilton Health Sciences, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
JAMA Network Open
|February 1, 2022
Summary
Excess body fat and visceral adipose tissue are linked to lower cognitive scores, even after accounting for cardiovascular risks. Reducing adiposity may help preserve brain function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cardiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Excess adipose tissue is a known cardiovascular risk factor and may impact brain health.
- The independent association between adiposity, vascular brain injury, and cognitive decline requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between body fat percentage, visceral adipose tissue, vascular brain injury, and cognitive scores.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional analysis of 9189 participants from the CAHHM and PURE-MIND cohorts.
- Assessed body fat percentage and visceral adipose tissue using bioelectrical impedance analysis and MRI.
- Evaluated cognitive function via the Digital Symbol Substitution Test and Montreal Cognitive Assessment.
Main Results:
- Higher body fat percentage and visceral adipose tissue correlated with increased vascular brain injury and lower Digital Symbol Substitution Test scores.
- A 1-SD increase in body fat or visceral adipose tissue was associated with a 0.8-point decrease in Digital Symbol Substitution Test scores, independent of cardiovascular risk factors.
- Higher adiposity explained 20.5% of reduced Digital Symbol Substitution Test scores.
Conclusions:
- Both generalized and visceral adiposity are independently associated with reduced cognitive function.
- Strategies aimed at reducing adiposity may be crucial for preserving cognitive function and preventing cognitive decline.
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