Impact of the metabolic syndrome on the cognitive impairments

Abstract Background Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a non-communicable multifactorial disease which involves visceral obesity and development of insulin resistance (IR) in its pathogenesis. High occurrence and prognosis of increase outline the MetS as an important public health problem. Early identification of MetS and effective treatment of its symptoms could prevent the development of cognitive decline. The aim of the study was to investigate the biomarkers for early identification of MetS and cognitive decline as its important outcome. Methods A cardiological, neuropsychological and neurological study was conducted among 75 patients at the University Hospital of Pleven. The study was approved by ethical committee. Plasma amyloid beta (Aβ) levels, procalcitonin (PCT), NT-proBNP as predictors of cognitive decline in patients with MetS were identified and assessed according to appropriate reference limits. Significance of associations and differences was accepted at level p < 0.05. Statistical data processing was performed by IBM SPSS Statistics v.25. Results An inverse relationship between NT-proBNP and diastolic blood pressure, waist circumference, triglycerides, HDL- and LDL cholesterol was found. Plasma levels of Aβ42 and Aβ40 in patients with MetS were below the appropriate reference limits. Regression analysis showed a positive association between NT-proBNP and systolic blood pressure (p < 0.001) and fasting blood glucose (p < 0.05). There was a positive association between PCT levels, reduced levels of Aβ42 and Aβ40, increased NT-proBNP (60 pg/ml or greater) nd cognitive impairment in patients with MetS. Conclusions Our data support the impact of MetS on cognitive decline. Clarifying the risk factors associated with the development of vascular cognitive impairment provides a rationale for emphasizing the role of primary and secondary prevention of vascular diseases and early detection of cognitive decline. Key messages • A comprehensive understanding of interplasy between obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic disturbances is essential for effective prevention and management of MetS and its complications. • Identifying the mechanisms underlying the association between MetS and cognitive decline would provide insights into the etiology and interdependence of predementia and dementia syndromes.