Objective: We performed this longitudinal 2-year follow-up study to determine the incidence and risk factors associated with MCI in middle-aged and older adults.
Subjects and methods: This community-based longitudinal study was conducted in adults aged ≥ 50 years with normal cognitive function in Shanghai community, China, over a period of two years. Information about the socio-demographic, behavioral, anthropometric, and biochemical parameters was obtained at the baseline and cognitive function was assessed at the end of the follow-up period using the Montreal cognitive assessment tool.
Results: A total of 985 participants aged ≥ 50 years were included in the analysis. Incidence of MCI during the 2-year follow-up period among the study participants was 26.7% (95% CI: 24.0%-29.6%). Participants with lower level of education [primary - adjusted RR=2.79 (95% CI: 1.38-5.64 and secondary - adjusted RR=1.62 (95% CI: 1.17-2.24)], with history of cerebral infarction (adjusted RR=1.49; 95% CI: 1.05-2.12), history of cerebral hemorrhage (adjusted RR=3.20; 95% CI: 1.22-8.40) were found to have significantly higher risk of MCI. Regular tea consumption was associated with significantly reduced risk of MCI development (adjusted RR=0.69; 95% CI: 0.49-0.96).
Conclusions: Our study found that one in four participants developed MCI during the 2-year follow-up period. Lower educational level, history of cerebral infarction, cerebral hemorrhage and tea consumption were significant determinants of MCI incidence. The target groups identified in this study should be closely monitored with regular follow-up investigations for early diagnosis and appropriate management of the condition.