Cognitive dysfunction in military personnel - combatants with metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Cognitive dysfunction is a frequent yet underrecognized complication of metabolic syndrome (MS), with important medical and social implications. Impairment of cognitive abilities in these patients can reduce quality of life and increase the long-term risk of dementia and social maladaptation. This study evaluated the prevalence and clinical features of cognitive disorders (CDs) in military personnel—combatants—diagnosed with MS. Eighty-two patients with MS (main group) and 40 patients with arterial hypertension (AH) without MS (control group) underwent comprehensive assessment, including neuropsychological testing, biochemical analysis (lipid profile, glucose), blood pressure measurement, and statistical evaluation. Absence of cognitive impairment was significantly more frequent in the control group (χ2=11.7, p<0.01), whereas moderate CDs predominated in the MS group (χ2=4.2, p<0.05). The MS group demonstrated significantly lower performance across most neuropsychological measures, including screening scales, auditory-verbal memory, attention, processing speed, speech, and spatial orientation. Depression and anxiety scores correlated negatively with MMSE (r=–0.3, p<0.05) and positively with deficits in word memorization, naming, and attention tasks. Elevated triglycerides were associated with poorer attention and delayed recall (p<0.05), while low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels correlated with more errors in delayed reproduction (p<0.05). Findings indicate that in military personnel with MS, CDs are predominantly neurodynamic and, at present, do not result in complete social or domestic maladaptation. However, affected individuals remain at elevated risk for progression to severe cognitive impairment and dementia, underscoring the need for early detection and targeted preventive interventions.