BODY WEIGHT AND COGNITIVE DECLINE IN MCI

Abstract

Abstract Objective: To examine body mass index (BMI) and cognitive decline in subjects diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Methods: Neuropsychological testing was conducted of 286 MCI subjects. General estimating equations (GEE) assessed the relationships of baseline BMI with one-year change in global cognition. Logistic GEE assessed the relationship of BMI with a clinically significant decline in assessments of global cognition and conversion to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Results: Baseline BMI was associated with a significant decline in cognitive performance in MCI. We observed that a low baseline BMI as associated with an increased risk of a clinically significant decline in global cognition. No association between baseline BMI and conversion to AD was observed. Conclusions: Lower BMI is associated with a more rapid decline in cognition in MCI. This relationship suggests changes in metabolism are present in MCI or body composition may influence the rate of cognitive decline in MCI.