Physical Activity/Physical Function and Longitudinal Changes in Cognitive Function in Adults with Chronic Kidney Disease.

Project Summary Patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) are at higher risk for developing cognitive impairment and dementia as compared to those without CKD. In non-CKD populations, higher levels of physical activity and physical function have been found to be associated with a lower risk of longitudinal decline in cognitive function. However, these relationships have not been well examined in the setting of CKD. This proposed application for a NIDDK T32 Medical Student Research Training Administrative Supplement will address this knowledge gap by leveraging data from the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC) Study and evaluating the impact of self-reported physical activity and objectively measured physical function on longitudinal changes in cognitive function. To accomplish these goals, we will pursue the two specific aims: 1) Examine the association between self-reported physical activity and longitudinal changes in cognitive function in adults with CKD; and 2) Determine the association between objective measures of physical function (as assessed by the Short Physical Performance Battery, SPPB) and longitudinal change in cognitive function in adults with CKD. Findings from the proposed study have the potential to influence clinical care and guide the design of interventions aimed at preventing cognitive decline in patients with CKD.