Cognitive Dysfunction among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus – A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) displays multisystemic affection which is known to reduce the overall quality of life. Recent studies have revealed the impact of type 2 DM (T2DM) on cognitive function in addition to other neurological affections. This study assessed the prevalence of cognitive dysfunction among subjects with T2DM and evaluated its association with glycemic control and complications. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among subjects with T2DM visiting the outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital for 24 months between January 2021 and December 2022. Complete physical and clinical assessment, including diabetes profile, was conducted, followed by a mini–mental state examination (MMSE) to assess the cognitive function of subjects. Results: A total of 135 patients with T2DM were included (72 males, 63 females). Cognitive impairment was observed in 80.7% of the study population, with 39.3% presenting mild, 30.4% moderate, and 11.1% severe impairment, while 19.3% had normal cognition. The mean MMSE scores were 22.1 ± 0.9 for mild, 15.1 ± 2.0 for moderate, and 8.4 ± 0.6 for severe impairment ( P < 0.001). Higher glycosylated hemoglobin levels (9.5% ±2.2% in mild, 8.6% ±2.4% in moderate, 7.6% ±1.5% in severe vs. 6.4% ±0.4% in normal; P < 0.001) and longer duration of diabetes (mean 54.7% ±37.9 months; P < 0.001) were significantly associated with cognitive dysfunction. Conclusion: Cognitive dysfunction is highly prevalent among patients with T2DM and is significantly associated with poor glycemic control and longer disease duration. These findings highlight the importance of routine cognitive screening and optimal metabolic management in diabetic care.