Prevalence, clinical characteristics, and association between chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD) and cognitive status in a cohort of elderly adults

The burden of age‐related conditions, like COPD and dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, has been increasing. COPD prevalence is highest in women aged 65‐74 (10.4%) and in men aged 75‐84 (11.2%). We hypothesized that COPD, which may lead to chronic brain hypoxia, could increase the risk for late‐life dementia. By examining the association between COPD and cognitive status, we sought to better understand potential shared risk factors associated with these highly prevalent conditions.