Evidence from a meta-analysis and systematic review reveals the global prevalence of mild cognitive impairment

Wen-Xin Song1, Wei-Wei Wu1, Yuan-Yuan Zhao1

  • 1The First Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China.

PubMed
Abstract

Insights

The global prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is 19.7%. MCI rates significantly increased after 2019, particularly in hospitals, possibly due to COVID-19.

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology and Public Health
  • Neuroscience and Epidemiology

Background:

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) represents a critical transitional phase between normal aging and dementia, necessitating accurate prevalence data.
  • Understanding the global epidemiology of MCI is vital for developing targeted interventions and healthcare strategies.

Approach:

  • A systematic meta-analysis was conducted, adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines, by searching multiple databases up to March 2023.
  • Data from 233 studies encompassing 676,974 individuals over 50 years old were analyzed using a random-effects model.
  • Quality assessment utilized the AHRQ methodology checklist, ensuring the reliability of the pooled prevalence estimates.

Key Points:

  • The pooled global prevalence of MCI among individuals over 50 years old was found to be 19.7%.
  • A significant increase in MCI prevalence was observed post-2019, with rates reaching 32.1%.
  • MCI prevalence was notably higher in hospital settings (34.0%) compared to nursing homes (22.6%) and communities (17.9%), especially following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Conclusions:

  • The global prevalence of MCI is 19.7%, influenced by survey year and sample source.
  • The surge in MCI prevalence post-2019, particularly in hospitals, is potentially linked to the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Increased attention and resource allocation are crucial for populations at risk of MCI.

Related Concept Videos

Alzheimer's Disease: Overview01:26

Alzheimer's Disease: Overview

Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a continually advancing neurodegenerative disorder, distinguished by escalating memory loss, cognitive dysfunction, and dementia. The disease unfolds in three stages: preclinical, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and dementia. Its onset is insidious, and the progression gradual, with the cause not well explained by other disorders.
The clinical diagnosis of AD hinges on the presence of memory and other cognitive impairments. Biomarkers, such as changes in Aβ...
498
Cognitive Development During Adulthood01:30

Cognitive Development During Adulthood

Cognitive development continues throughout adulthood, undergoing significant shifts across early, middle, and late stages. Individual transition occurs from adolescent idealism to pragmatic and adaptable thinking in early adulthood. During this period, individuals learn to integrate personal beliefs with the recognition that other perspectives are equally valid. Exposure to the complexities of modern society, diverse experiences, and higher education contribute to this adaptive thought process,...
122
Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)01:27

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) serves as the primary classification system for mental health disorders, providing standardized diagnostic criteria for clinicians and researchers. First published by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) in 1952, the DSM has undergone several revisions to reflect evolving psychiatric understanding. The fifth edition, DSM-5, released in 2013, introduced key updates that expanded diagnostic categories and modified diagnostic...
59
Dementia01:30

Dementia

Dementia is a collective term for cognitive disorders primarily affecting memory, thinking, and reasoning. It is not a specific disease but a syndrome, with Alzheimer's disease being the most common cause, accounting for approximately 60-80% of cases. Other types include vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. Dementia affects millions worldwide, particularly older adults, though it is not a normal part of aging.
The progression of dementia is generally gradual....
120
Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists01:30

Cognitive Enhancers: Cholinesterase Inhibitors and NMDA Receptor Antagonists

Cognitive enhancers, also known as "smart drugs," are substances used to enhance memory, mental alertness, and concentration. These can be natural or synthetic and improve cognition in conditions like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Some common examples include caffeine, amphetamines, methylphenidate, modafinil, arecoline, donepezil, vortioxetine, and piracetam. These enhancers work on the principle of synaptic plasticity and altered circuit function.
130
Intellectual Disability01:29

Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability (ID) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in intellectual and adaptive functioning that manifest during the developmental period. This condition encompasses challenges in reasoning, memory, problem-solving, and learning, accompanied by impairments in everyday life skills, such as communication, self-care, and social interactions. Intellectual disability affects approximately 1% of the population in the United States, impacting an estimated 5...
57