Researchers at the University of Montreal have found that decreased kidney filtration rates are directly linked to cognitive decline, according to a study published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia (A&D).
Sixteen thousand healthy volunteers participated in the research. The scientists focused on the renal filtration rate of the participants’ kidneys and its effect on cognitive function. The results showed that decreased kidney filtration function was associated with poorer cognitive performance, and this effect remained consistent regardless of the participants’ gender, education level, body weight, or cardiovascular status.
As part of the research, a detailed scan of the cerebral cortex of the volunteers was conducted at 50,000 points. Participants with impaired kidney function showed signs of brain atrophy, particularly in the frontal lobes. These pathological changes were similar to those observed in patients with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Scientists hypothesize that kidney damage may lead to the accumulation of toxins in the body, which can impair brain function. Additionally, diabetes, a common cause of kidney failure, also contributes to vascular deterioration, further exacerbating the problem.