Takeaway
High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) may serve as a unique lipid marker for structural brain lesions and cognitive decline, which has potential implications for optimal lipid-management and healthy brain aging.
Why this matters
Although epidemiologic studies have shown an association between high levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low levels of HDL-C with cognitive decline, there is a lack of population-based studies investigating the associations of serum lipids with brain structure and cognitive dysfunction.
The findings of this study suggest the potential role of HDL-C as a unique lipid marker for structural brain lesions and cognitive aging, and may assist clinicians in optimizing lipid-management in older adults, specifically those living in rural areas of China.