Retinal thickness predicts the risk of cognitive decline over five years.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Dementia poses a significant burden on healthcare systems. Early identification of individuals at risk for cognitive decline is crucial. The retina, an extension of the central nervous system, reflects neurodegenerative changes. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive tool for assessing retinal health and has shown promise in predicting cognitive decline. However, prior studies produced mixed results.

Methods

This study investigated a large cohort (n = 490) of Asian individuals attending memory clinics. Participants underwent comprehensive neuropsychological testing annually for five years. Retinal thickness was measured by OCT at baseline. We assessed the association between baseline retinal thickness and subsequent cognitive decline.

Results

SUBMITTER: Eppenberger LS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11664827 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature