This review delves into the impact of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) on cognitive decline and accelerated brain aging, addressing the critical need for understanding the complex interplay between diabetes and neurological outcomes.
A systematic search of electronic databases
(PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar) was conducted
using predefined keywords, including "Type 2 Diabetes
Mellitus," "cognition," and "brain aging." Inclusion
criteria encompassed peer-reviewed research articles,
clinical studies, and reviews in English, with manual
reference list checks performed to include relevant
studies. Data extraction involved systematic retrieval
of key study elements from selected articles.
T2DM, characterized by a diverse array of
symptoms, exhibits a particularly alarming
manifestation in the form of accelerated brain aging,
leading to cognitive decline. Notably, T2DM is
associated with a 50% increased risk of dementia.
Comprehensive evaluations, including studies
analyzing the UK biobank dataset, reveal a 26% faster
gray matter atrophy in T2DM patients compared to
normal aging. This atrophy is most pronounced in the
ventral striatum and is notably associated with
executive function decline.
In conclusion, T2DM emerges as a substantial contributor to accelerated brain aging and cognitive decline, with implications for both males and females. The severity of neurological decline is influenced by factors such as disease duration, glycemic control, and age. Despite advancements, the exact pathophysiology linking T2DM to brain atrophy and cognitive decline remains elusive, underscoring the need for further research. Additionally, the absence of specific biomarkers emphasizes the importance of regular neurological screenings for early detection and intervention.
