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Predictors for Early Detection of Dementia, the Importance of Testing and Early Identification of Mild Cognitive Impairment in the Practice of the Selected Physician

Aleksandra JESIC, Dragana KOPANJA and Tatjana MLADENOVIC

The World Health Organization recognizes aging as an important factor in the development of dementia. Statistical data show that the risk of dementia increases with age. More than 65% of dementia cases occur in individuals older than 65 years, while in the age group over 85 years this figure exceeds 30%. Aging is associated with other risk factors that contribute to the development of dementia (hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, lack of physical activity, level of education, depression, etc.).The aim of this study was to assess the cognitive status of patients with comorbidities and apparently preserved cognition in our medical records. The objective was to determine the prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and to analyze the association between cognitive decline and predictors of dementia among patients in our practice.Anamnestic data and laboratory analyses from available medical documentation were used. Cognitive abilities were assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) test. A total of 200 patients from two medical practices were tested: 89 men and 111 women, aged 50 years and older.Thirty-one percent of the participants had MoCA test results consistent with MCI. In the group aged 85 and older, 83% (5/6) had findings indicative of MCI. In the group aged 50–64 years, 14% showed results suggesting MCI. The prevalence of MCI was significantly higher among participants with up to 12 years of formal education (45% vs. 20%). Most tested participants had elevated LDL cholesterol and blood glucose levels. Hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes mellitus were equally represented in both groups. Only mood disorders were significantly more prevalent in the group with MCI (31% vs. 7%).Previous research highlights the importance of lifestyle modification at the earliest possible stage. According to a recent report by the nonprofit research organization RAND, cognitive abilities, functional limitations, and physical health may be strong predictors of dementia risk up to 20 years before its onset. Certain lifestyle choices made at the age of 60 may indicate an increased risk of dementia later in life.Risk factors, as significant predictors, influence the prevalence of MCI regardless of age group and comorbidities.