Diabetes Linked to Cognitive Impairment

Diabetes is linked to a higher risk of mild cognitive impairment (MCI), a transitional stage between normal aging and Alzheimer's which may impair memory, language and reasoning.

Researchers at Columbia University Medical Center interviewed and assessed 918 individuals of various ethnic backgrounds every 1.5 years for an average of six years. Individuals began the study free of cognitive impairment while 24 percent had diabetes, 68 percent had hypertension, 34 percent had heart disease and 15 percent had suffered a stroke. Over the course of the study 334 individuals developed MCI. Particularly affected were individuals with diabetes, who showed an 8.8 percent risk for the disease.

Researchers speculate that the correlation may be because diabetes affects the buildup of plaque in the brain, a characteristic of Alzheimer's.

Read more: Diabetics found more prone to mild memory problems
ABSTRACT: Relation of Diabetes to Mild Cognitive Impairment