C-Reactive Protein and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Mooijaart Simon P., Sattar Naveed, Trompet Stella, Polisecki Eliana, de Craen Anton J. M., Schaefer Ernst J., Jahn Sabine E., van Himbergen Thomas, Welsh Paul, Ford Ian, Stott David J., Westendorp Rudi G. J.
Primary Institution: Leiden University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Is C-reactive protein causally linked to cognitive decline in old age?
Conclusion
Higher plasma C-reactive protein levels are associated with poorer cognitive performance, but do not indicate a causal role in cognitive decline.
Supporting Evidence
- Higher CRP levels were linked to worse performance on cognitive tests.
- The study included a large sample size of 5680 participants.
- CRP haplotypes were associated with plasma CRP concentrations.
- Statin use did not affect cognitive decline during the study.
Takeaway
This study looked at whether a protein linked to inflammation affects thinking skills in older people. It found that while higher levels of this protein are related to worse thinking skills, they don't seem to cause the decline.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from the PROSPER trial, examining the relationship between plasma CRP levels and cognitive performance over a mean follow-up of 3.2 years.
Potential Biases
Potential residual confounding by unmeasured factors that raise CRP and also cause cognitive decline.
Limitations
The study may be underpowered to detect small effects and excluded participants with poor cognitive function at baseline.
Participant Demographics
Participants were aged 70-82 years, with a mean age of 75 years, and included 52% females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.016
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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