Background
Alzheimer’s disease (AD), type 2 diabetes mellitus (characterised by insulin resistance) and depression are significant challenges facing public health. Research has demonstrated common comorbidities among these three conditions, typically focusing on two of them at a time.
Objective
The goal of this study, however, was to assess the inter-relationships between the three conditions, focusing on mid-life (defined as age 40–59) risk before the emergence of dementia caused by AD.
Methods
In the current study, we used cross-sectional data from 665 participants from the cohort study, PREVENT.
Findings
Using structural equation modelling, we showed that (1) insulin resistance predicts executive dysfunction in older but not younger adults in mid-life, that (2) insulin resistance predicts self-reported depression in both older and younger middle-aged adults and that (3) depression predicts deficits in visuospatial memory in older but not younger adults in mid-life.
Conclusions
Together, we demonstrate the inter-relations between three common non-communicable diseases in middle-aged adults.
Clinical implications
We emphasise the need for combined interventions and the use of resources to help adults in mid-life to modify risk factors for cognitive impairment, such as depression and diabetes.
I’ve been toying with the idea of getting an air purifier for my home for…
Background Evidence-based mental health requires patient-relevant outcome data, but many indicators lack clinical meaning and…
Background Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality due…
Background Depression alongside multiple long-term conditions (MLTCs) in older adults poses a critical public health…
Objectives Should a young person receive psychotherapy or medication for their depression and on what…
Background People with severe mental illness (SMI) are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD),…