Reduced phase angle as a potential indicator of mild cognitive impairment

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the relationship between phase angle (PhA), measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 290 community residents (83.7% female, average age 74.9 years). Cognitive function was assessed using the Japanese version of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA-J), with MCI defined as a score of ≤25. Body composition, including PhA, was measured using BIA. Multiple regression analysis was used to examine the association between PhA and MCI presence, adjusting for potential confounders. MCI was found in 168 participants. The PhA (leg) was significantly lower in those with MCI than in those without (p = 0.013). A significant association between leg PhA and MCI was identified in the regression model (β = 0.103, p = 0.015), with an adjusted R² value of 0.50. These findings suggested that PhA may serve as an indicator of MCI. Longitudinal and inter­vention studies are needed to explore the potential of PhA in dementia prevention strategies. In addition, future research should focus on developing dementia prevention strategies that utilize PhA through longitudinal and interventional studies.