Evaluation of global cognitive impairment and specific cognitive domains of type 2 diabetic patients based on CANTAB test

Abstract

Previous studies investigating cognitive disorders have yielded contradictory results. Furthermore, most studies in this realm have utilized the MMSE test, which lacks sufficient sensitivity for examining cognitively involved areas. Introducing a novel and sensitive approach, this study employs the CANTAB test to investigate global cognitive impairment and specific cognitive domains in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted with the participation of patients with type 2 diabetes in Tabriz Medical Sciences during 2023-2024. Fifty patients receiving treatment for type 2 diabetes underwent cognitive examinations using the CANTAB battery. The results were analyzed based on variables such as age, sex, duration of diabetes, medications used, and the level of diabetes control. Results: Among the total participants, 11 exhibited episodic memory disorder, with its incidence among patients with poor glycemic control insignificantly higher (P=0.419) than those with good glycemic control. Processing speed disorder was observed in 8 participants, and its incidence was significantly higher among patients with poor glycemic control (P=0.036) compared to those with good glycemic control. Spatial memory disorder was found in 16 participants, with a significantly higher incidence among patients with poor glycemic control (P=0.253) than those with good glycemic control. Attention and concentration disorders were identified in 10 participants, and their occurrence was significantly higher (P=0.009) in patients with poor glycemic control compared to those with good glycemic control. Visual memory impairment was present in 16 participants, and its incidence among patients with poor glycemic control was significantly higher (P=0.048) than in those with good glycemic control. Motor function impairment was observed in 10 participants, and its incidence was significantly higher (P=0.032) in patients with poor glycemic control compared to those with good glycemic control.