Factors associated with poor glycaemic control in type 2 diabetic elderly patients with mild cognitive impairment

Introduction and objective. Recently, data has indicated a higher incidence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in patients with diabetes. Old age is a risk factor for cognitive deterioration and dementia. The aim of the study was to find the factors associated with poor glycaemic control in type 2 diabetic elderly patients with MCI. Materials and method. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 87 diabetic patients with MCI in an outpatient clinic. All subjects were screened for MCI using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Detailed medical history and collection of blood test samples were performed. Results. 83.9% of participants had poor glycaemic control. A positive correlation was found between HbA1c level and number of visit to a doctor per year, number of co-morbidities, duration of T2DM, triglycerides and fasting glucose level; and a negative correlation between HbA1c level and years of education, HDL cholesterol level and MoCA score. The univariate logistic regression models revealed factors which are associated with poor glycemic control are: less years of education, higher no of visit to doctor per year, increased number of co-morbidities, presence of CVD, retinopathy, higher levels of triglycerides and fasting glucose, lower level of HDL cholesterol, lower MoCA score. Multivariable model revealed that higher plasma levels of fasting glucose and triglycerides are significant predictors. Conclusions. There is a high prevalence of poor glycemic control patients among elderly diabetics with MCI. Higher plasma levels of fasting glucose and triglycerides seems to be the most important predictors of poor glycemic control, however father larger studies are needed to elucidate these relationships.