Assessment of Cognitive Abilities in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus at a Tertiary Health Care Center

Abstract

Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder with known vascular complications. However, cognitive dysfunction remains an underrecognized yet significant complication. Hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and associated metabolic disturbances may lead to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline, negatively impacting diabetics' self-control and life quality.
Objective: To assess cognitive function in people with type 2 diabetes and to assess how it relates to glycemic control, diabetes duration, BMI, and selected lifestyle and characteristics of the population.
Methods: This observational, cross-sectional investigation was carried out at Teerthanker Mahaveer Hospital, Uttar Pradesh, over a period of six months. A total of 449 consenting adults aged 30–70 years with diagnosed T2DM were enrolled. Exclusion criteria included neurological illness, psychiatric medication use, and sensory impairments. To evaluate cognitive status, the Mini-Mental status Examination (MMSE). Glycemic control was evaluated by HbA1c, postprandial blood glucose (PPBG), and fasting blood glucose (FBG) measurements. BMI and diabetes duration were recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS v25.0; Spearman correlation and non-parametric tests were applied.
Results: Cognitive impairment and inadequate glycemic management were strongly correlated (HbA1c >6.5%, p = 3.4E-07), longer diabetes duration (p = 0.0048), and higher BMI (p < 0.0001). Participants with elevated FBG and PPBG also showed higher prevalence of mild to severe cognitive impairment. While trends were observed regarding education, gender, and lifestyle factors, these were not statistically significant.
Conclusion: Cognitive decline is common among T2DM patients and correlates strongly with glycemic parameters and disease duration. Regular cognitive testing ought to be incorporated into diabetic care, particularly for long-standing or poorly controlled patients. Early detection and intervention could improve patient results and lessen. The enduring effects of cognitive impairment brought on by diabetes.