Metabolic syndrome and cognitive decline in Chinese older adults: Results from the Singapore Longitudinal Ageing Studies

Objective: To determine the association of the metabolic syndrome (MS) with cognitive decline in a Chinese older population. Methods: In a prospective cohort study of 1,352 community-living Chinese older adults without cognitive impairment (Mini Mental State Examination, MMSE <24) and without cardiovascular disease and stroke, the authors assessed baseline MS (defined according to International Diabetic Federation Criteria). Cognitive decline was pre-defined as at least 2-point drop in MMSE score at follow-up 1-2 years after baseline assessment. Results: MS was present in 26.3% of the participants at baseline and was significantly associated with the risk of cognitive decline (odds ratio, 1.42: confidence interval, 1.01-1.98), after controlling for potential confounding by age, gender, education, smoking, alcohol drinking, depressive symptoms, APOE-e4 status, level of leisure activities, baseline MMSE, and length of follow-up. Conclusion: The MS was associated with increased risk of cognitive decline in Chinese older adults.