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Association between Cumulative BMI and Cognitive Decline: a 24-Year Cohort Study
Research Square
|June 5, 2025
Summary
High cumulative Body Mass Index (cBMI) is linked to faster cognitive decline, particularly in memory and executive function. The most significant impact on cognitive health was observed eight years after elevated cBMI, underscoring the need for long-term weight management.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
Background:
- High Body Mass Index (BMI) is associated with impaired cognitive function.
- Limited research exists on the long-term effects of cumulative BMI (cBMI) on cognitive health.
- Understanding the temporal relationship between cBMI and cognitive decline is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between cumulative average BMI (caBMI) and cognitive decline over time.
- To identify the critical time window during which cBMI exerts its strongest influence on cognition.
- To examine cognitive decline in memory and executive function in relation to caBMI.
Main Methods:
- Utilized data from the Health and Retirement Study (1996-2020) with 8,252 participants.
- Calculated cumulative BMI (cBMI) and cumulative average BMI (caBMI) over the follow-up period.
- Employed linear mixed models to assess the relationship between caBMI and cognitive decline, adjusting for covariates.
Main Results:
- A 100-unit increase in caBMI was significantly associated with accelerated decline in global cognition, executive function, and memory.
- Cognitive decline rates were highest eight years after elevated caBMI.
- Older adults (≥65 years) showed a stronger association between caBMI and cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- Cumulative average BMI is a significant predictor of long-term cognitive decline.
- Weight management and consistent BMI monitoring are vital for maintaining cognitive health, especially in older adults.
- An eight-year lag highlights the delayed impact of cumulative BMI on cognitive function.
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