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Association Between Metabolic Syndrome and Decline in Cognitive Function: A Cross-Sectional Study
Hissa N Alsuwaidi1, Ashraf I Ahmed1, Hamad A Alkorbi1
1College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is linked to poorer short-term visual memory in middle-aged and older adults. This study highlights the impact of MetS on cognitive function, particularly memory performance.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Metabolic Disorders
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
- Cognitive decline is a growing concern in aging populations, with various factors influencing brain health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between metabolic syndrome (MetS) and cognitive function in middle-aged and elderly individuals in Qatar.
- To assess the impact of MetS on specific cognitive domains, including reaction time and short-term visual memory.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the Qatar Biobank, including 1000 participants aged 40-80 years.
- Metabolic syndrome was diagnosed using NCEP-ATP III criteria. Cognitive function was assessed using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB), specifically Reaction Time (RT) and Paired Associate Learning (PAL) tests.
- Multivariable logistic regression models were employed to analyze the association between MetS and cognitive performance.
Main Results:
- A significant association was found between MetS and poor short-term visual memory (Paired Associate Learning test) (OR 1.76, P=0.034).
- A weaker, non-significant association was observed between MetS and slower speed of reaction (Reaction Time test) (OR 1.5, P=0.125).
- The majority of participants (n=825) had either MetS or 1-2 components of MetS.
Conclusions:
- Metabolic syndrome is strongly associated with diminished short-term visual memory in middle-aged and elderly populations.
- The findings suggest that metabolic health plays a crucial role in maintaining cognitive function, particularly memory.
- Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms underlying this association and potential interventions.
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