Lifestyle factors affecting cognitive function of adults: A cross-sectional study

IntroductionCognitive health is not only affected by age, as there is significant inter-individual variability in cognitive decline. Studies have shown that cognitive function can be affected by a number of lifestyle factors, which can either delay or expedite the process of cognitive decline.MethodologyWe explored this effect in our demographic in Saudi Arabia by carrying out a cross-sectional study involving 202 adults above the age of 40 from two tertiary care hospitals. Cognitive function was scored using a standardized test assessing cognitive function, known as the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE). In addition, we used a specifically designed questionnaire in order to investigate several lifestyle components.ResultsThe results showed that in our sample, the mean MMSE score was 23.45 ± 4.203 SD. Females (n = 94) scored on average 3 points less than males (95% CI: 2.0-4.2 points, p < 0.0001). Having any history of chronic diseases (n = 171) was associated with lower MMSE scores (95% CI: −4.4 to −1.9 points, p < 0.0001). Prevalent diseases such as diabetes mellitus (n = 98) and hypertension (n = 87) were associated with lower scores on the MMSE.ConclusionCognitive function as scored by the MMSE is not only affected by age, but shows gender variability and is strongly associated with different lifestyle factors in the studied demographic. Further research is required to establish a causal relationship and allow for generalizability.