Exploration of demographic prevalence of mild cognitive impairment using Montreal cognitive assessment: A cross-sectional pilot study in the Cape Coast Metropolis, Ghana

  • 0Department of Medical Laboratory Science, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana.

|

|

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is prevalent in Ghanaians aged 40-49, with higher rates in younger adults. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) tool effectively identifies MCI and its cognitive deficits in this population.

Area Of Science

  • Neurology
  • Public Health
  • Gerontology

Background

  • Global dementia prevalence is rising, with a notable increase expected in low and middle-income countries like Ghana.
  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) signifies a transitional stage between normal aging and dementia, marked by cognitive decline.
  • Individuals with MCI face an elevated risk of progressing to dementia.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To assess the prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in Ghana.
  • To investigate the relationship between sociodemographic factors and MCI.
  • To address the scarcity of research on MCI within the Ghanaian population.

Main Methods

  • A prospective, cross-sectional study involving 100 participants in Cape Coast, Ghana.
  • Cognitive function was evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) tool.
  • Statistical analyses included descriptive measures, two-way ANOVA for risk factors, and Pearson correlation for education and MoCA scores.

Main Results

  • Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) was identified in 65.4% of participants aged 40-49 years.
  • MCI prevalence was 42.86% in males and 40.54% in females (MoCA score < 26).
  • A significant positive correlation (r=0.608, p=0.0001) was found between educational level and MoCA scores, with MCI patients showing deficits in multiple cognitive domains.

Conclusions

  • The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) is effective for detecting MCI in Ghanaians, especially those with at least 7 years of education.
  • The high prevalence of MCI in the 40-49 age group in Cape Coast highlights a significant public health concern.
  • Further research is needed to understand and mitigate the growing burden of cognitive impairment in Ghana.

Related Concept Videos

Dementia 01:30

63

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....

Alzheimer's Disease: Overview 01:26

313

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...

Cognitive Development During Adulthood 01:30

22

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,...