Cognitive Function and Overweight in Preschool Children

Citation

Guxens, Monica; Mendez, Michelle A.; Julvez, Jordi; Plana, Estel; Forns, Joan; Basagana, Xavier; Torrent, Maties; & Sunyer, Jordi (2009). Cognitive Function and Overweight in Preschool Children. American Journal of Epidemiology, 170(4), 438-446. PMCID: PMC3491998

Abstract

The authors assessed the association between cognitive function and incidence and maintenance of overweight in preschool children. A population-based birth cohort was established in Menorca, Spain, between 1997 and 1999 (n = 482). Body mass index (weight (kg)/height (m)(2)) was measured at ages 4 years and 6 years (n = 421). At age 4 years, children were assessed for cognitive function (McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities) (n = 395). After multivariable adjustment for a wide range of factors, including maternal education and body mass index, children with higher general cognition at age 4 years had a lower likelihood of being overweight (odds ratio = 0.47, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.25, 0.88) at age 6 years. Children with higher general cognition at age 4 years had a lower likelihood of maintaining an unhealthy weight status (being at risk of overweight or overweight) between ages 4 years and 6 years, as well as worsening weight status over time, than children who maintained a healthy weight (odds ratios were 0.78 (95% CI: 0.54, 1.14) and 0.77 (95% CI: 0.51, 1.14), respectively). When specific dimensions of cognitive function were assessed, associations were mainly found for verbal and executive function areas. Children with higher cognitive function in early life might be at decreased risk of overweight later in childhood.

URL

http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/aje/kwp140

Reference Type

Journal Article

Year Published

2009

Journal Title

American Journal of Epidemiology

Author(s)

Guxens, Monica
Mendez, Michelle A.
Julvez, Jordi
Plana, Estel
Forns, Joan
Basagana, Xavier
Torrent, Maties
Sunyer, Jordi

PMCID

PMC3491998