The relationship between neurocognitive functioning and metabolic syndrome (MetS) parameters and the interaction effect of cognitive insight in non-psychiatric individuals

Abstract

Introduction

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) parameters are: elevated waist circumference (WC), triglycerides (TG), fasting glucose (FBG) and blood pressure (BP) and reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). MetS parameters are associated with poor cognition and this association should be studied in the context of other factors. In particular, factors that are involved in maintaining poor lifestyle choices – MetS is largely a lifestyle illness. One factor important to consider is cognitive insight – an individual's ability to be flexible in how you think about yourself and others and to question your own thoughts.

Objectives

To conduct an exploratory cross-sectional study investigating the influence of cognitive insight on the relationship between MetS parameters and cognition in non-psychiatric individuals.

Aims

To explore the nature of the relationship between cognition and MetS parameters and test whether cognitive insight moderates the association.

Methods

Our sample consisted of n = 156 participants with mixed-ancestry. Correlations between MetS parameters and cognition were tested. ANOVA was used to test interaction effects and logistic regression was done to test the predictive power of selected factors.

Results

BP correlated with attention, delayed memory, and RBANS total scale score. The BCIS self-certainty subscale moderated the relationship between BP and immediate memory and attention. Age and BCIS self-certainty were the only predictors of elevated BP.

Conclusions

Good cognitive insight act as protective factor and reduce the impact of elevated BP on cognition. Cognitive insight may be a predictor of elevated BP.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.