Association between arterial health and cognition in adolescents: the PANIC study

Abstract

Intro: We investigated the associations of the measures of arterial health with cognition in adolescents and whether physical activity (PA) or sedentary time (ST) confounds these associations.

Methods: 116 adolescents (71 boys) aged 15.9±0.4 participated in the study. PA and ST were assessed using a combined accelerometer/heart rate monitor. Overall cognition was computed from the results of psychomotor function, attention, working memory, and paired-associate learning tests. Pulse wave velocity was measured by impedance cardiography, carotid intima-media thickness and carotid artery distensibility by carotid ultrasonography. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP) were measured using an aneroid sphygmomanometer.

Results: SBP was inversely associated with overall cognition (standardized regression coefficient (β)=-0.216, 95% confidence interval (CI) -0.406 to -0.027, P=0.025). Pulse wave velocity (β=-0.199, 95 % CI -0.382 to -0.017, P=0.033) was inversely associated with working memory task accuracy. SBP was directly associated with reaction time in the attention (β=0.256, 95 % CI 0.069 to 0.443, P=0.008) and errors in the paired-associate learning tasks (β=0.308, 95% CI 0.126 to 0.489, P=0.001).

Conclusion: Blood pressure was inversely associated with overall cognition. PA or ST did not confound the associations. Results suggest that preventing high blood pressure is important for promoting cognition in adolescents.