Examination of metabolic syndrome in Down syndrome and association with dementia.

INTRODUCTION

In the neurotypical population, metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, this has not been well studied in adults with Down syndrome (DS).

METHODS

The prevalence of MetS and its subcomponents was examined in adults with DS using the Alzheimer Biomarkers Consortium - Down Syndrome data (ABC-DS, N = 389). Logistic regression was used to examine the relationship between MetS and AD at baseline visits.

RESULTS

Prevalence of MetS, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia was low with DS, even though the prevalence of obesity was elevated. Obesity was positively associated with AD in adults with DS (odds ratio = 2.79, P = 0.021), but there was no association between MetS and AD in DS.

DISCUSSION: The prevalence of MetS was low in adults with DS. Although MetS was not associated with AD, obesity, a subcomponent of MetS, was associated with AD in adults with DS. This may inform targeted treatments in the future.

HIGHLIGHTS: There was a low prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adults with Down syndrome (DS). Overall MetS was not associated with dementia in adults with DS. Obesity, a subcomponent of MetS, had a high prevalence in adults with DS. Obesity was positively associated with dementia in adults with DS.