Prevalence and impact of microvascular complications in type 2 diabetes mellitus on cognitive impairment and depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global health burden, often leading to microvascular complications such as neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy. These complications may contribute to cognitive impairment and depression, further complicating disease management and adverse...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Prakasini Satapathy, Pandey Pratima, Abhay M. Gaidhane, Nasir Vadia, Soumya V. Menon, Kattela Chennakesavulu, Rajashree Panigrahi, Muhammed Shabil, Diptismita Jena, Harish Kumar, Anju Rani, Sanjit Sah, Mahendra Pratap Singh, Edward Mawejje, Ganesh Bushi
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: BMC 2025-06-01
Series:Diabetology & Metabolic Syndrome
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1186/s13098-025-01759-9
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Abstract Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global health burden, often leading to microvascular complications such as neuropathy, retinopathy, and nephropathy. These complications may contribute to cognitive impairment and depression, further complicating disease management and adversely affecting quality of life. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the prevalence and association between diabetic microvascular complications and cognitive impairment and depression among individuals with T2DM. Methods A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science was conducted through November 15, 2024, following PRISMA guidelines. Observational studies examining the association between microvascular complications and mental health outcomes were included. Study quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies (MINORS) scale. Meta-analyses were performed using standard statistical software, with pooled odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) calculated. Results Out of 5,640 articles screened, 7 studies met inclusion criteria. The prevalence of cognitive impairment was 34.9% in patients with neuropathy, 55.29% with retinopathy, and 40.97% with nephropathy. Depression prevalence was 43.30% for neuropathy, 40.17% for retinopathy, and 18.92% for nephropathy. Associations with cognitive impairment showed ORs of 0.878 (95% CI, 0.298–2.585) for neuropathy, 1.358 (95% CI, 0.957–1.927) for retinopathy, and 1.421 (95% CI, 1.086–1.858) for nephropathy. For depression, ORs were 1.291 (95% CI, 0.613–2.721) for retinopathy and 6.200 (95% CI, 0.029–1305.771) for neuropathy. Conclusion Microvascular complications in T2DM contribute substantially to the burden of cognitive impairment and depression, with nephropathy showing a particularly strong link to cognitive decline. Standardized assessment approaches are needed, and integrated mental health care should be prioritized in the management of individuals with diabetes. Clinical trial number Not applicable.
ISSN:1758-5996