Association between a body shape index and cognitive impairment among US older adults aged 40 years and above from a cross-sectional survey of the NHANES 2011-2014

PurposeThis research aimed to assess the correlation between the Adjusted Body Shape Index (ABSI) and the presence of abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) among middle-aged and older American adults.MethodsEmploying a cross-sectional design, this study analyzed data from the 2013-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), focusing on 3077 participants aged 40 and above. AAC detection was conducted using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). ABSI was determined based on waist circumference (WC), weight, and height data. The association between ABSI and AAC was examined through multiple linear regression, smoothed curve analysis, threshold effect evaluation, subgroup analysis, and interaction testing.ResultsThe study encompassed 3077 individuals aged 40 and above. Findings indicated a noteworthy positive relationship between ABSI and AAC when adjusting various covariates. Analysis of threshold effects identified a K-point at 0.0908, showing no significant effect to its left but a significant effect to its right. Further, subgroup and interaction analyses highlighted the ABSI-AAC connection specifically within different age groups and among individuals with diabetes.ConclusionHigher ABSI was correlated with higher AAC score.