Anthropometric Indicators of Cognitive Health: An ICMR-MUDRA Toolbox-Based Assessment Among a Geriatric Population of...

IntroductionIndia's geriatric population is projected to reach 319 million by 2050, reflecting the global aging trend. Cognitive impairment significantly impacts the quality of life of older adults. Anthropometric measures serve as accessible indicators of nutritional status and body composition with potential associations with cognitive function. This study investigates the relationship between anthropometric measures and cognitive abilities using the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)-Multilingual Dementia Research and Assessment (MUDRA) Toolbox among geriatric populations in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.MethodsThis cross-sectional study enrolled 1013 participants aged 60 years and above from 7 randomly selected administrative blocks in Gorakhpur. Cognitive assessment was performed using the ICMR-MUDRA Toolbox, evaluating global cognition, attention, executive functioning, episodic memory, language, and visuospatial abilities. Anthropometric measurements included height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR), and Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC). Statistical analysis included Spearman rank correlation and binomial logistic regression.ResultsSignificant positive correlations were observed between MUAC and cognitive domains of the MUDRA toolbox. Conversely, WHR demonstrated significant negative correlations with the domains (P ≤ 0.05). Participants with moderate-risk WHRs had higher odds of impairment in attention/executive function (aOR = 1.79), memory (aOR = 1.69), and visuospatial function (aOR = 2.50), while high-risk WHRs were associated with greater impairment in memory (aOR = 2.18) and language (aOR = 2.21).ConclusionThis study reveals significant relationships between anthropometric measures and cognitive function in the geriatric population, with MUAC positively correlating with cognitive performance while WHR demonstrating negative correlations. The findings indicate that central obesity may be a particular risk factor for cognitive decline.