Prevalence and Risk of Mild Cognitive Impairment Among Chinese Adults Aged 60 Years and Above: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on National Data

Abstract

Background: This study conducted a cross-sectional analysis to assess the prevalence of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) among older adults in China and to identify its associated risk factors, with the aim of informing the development of early intervention strategies. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data collected in 2018 (Wave 4). The initial survey sample comprised 19,744 individuals, of whom 4773 formed the valid sample for analysis. After screening, the study ultimately selected 694 individuals who met all the inclusion criteria. MCI was defined according to the criteria for age-associated cognitive decline (AACD). Sociodemographic information, past comorbidities, and lifestyle were assessed. Results: The prevalence of MCI was 14.54%, with 694 individuals diagnosed with MCI. An elevated Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression (CESD) score was identified as a significant risk factor for MCI (OR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.3–1.9; p < 0.001). Living in rural areas (odds ratios (OR) = 2.0, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.6–2.6; p < 0.001) and napping (OR = 1.3, 95% CI: 1.1–1.6; p = 0.002) were also significant risk factors for MCI. Additionally, gender, memory level, and nighttime sleep were each associated with a 1.2-fold increase in MCI risk (OR = 1.2 for all; p range: 0.001–0.047). Correlation analysis indicated that both age and the current CESD score were significantly negatively correlated with the total cognitive score (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Among Chinese older adults living in the community, CESD score, napping, nighttime sleep, being female, and memory level were identified as independent risk factors for MCI. These findings underscore the importance of implementing screening and preventive strategies to mitigate MCI risk in this demographic.