Blood Pressure and Memory: Novel Approaches to Modeling Nonlinear Effects in Longitudinal Studies.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Linear models cannot capture nonlinear associations when the relationships between cognition and risk factors vary across risk levels. We demonstrate a method of modelling nonlinear associations using the example of blood pressure (BP) and memory.

Methods

We measured memory and BP (in mm Hg) annually for 10 years in a population-based cohort (N=1982) aged 65+. We evaluated the relationship between BP and memory at the same time points using both linear mixed models and generalized additive mixed models with smoothing splines, adjusting for relevant covariates.

Results

Linear mixed models found no significant associations. Generalized additive mixed models detected different associations between BP and memory across baseline BP categories (normotensive, hype

SUBMITTER: Liu A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6878165 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Oct-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature