Smoking linked to increased chances of mid-life memory loss, confusion, study finds

Findings suggest time since smoking cessation may be linked to cognitive outcomes

Middle-aged smokers have higher chances of developing signs of memory loss and confusion than nonsmokers, according to a new study which suggests the likelihood of cognitive decline is lower among those who have quit.

The research, published recently in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, builds on the relationships between smoking and Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia, uncovered in previous studies.

In the latest study, researchers from the Ohio State University examined the relationship between smoking and cognitive decline using a one-question self-assessment which asked people if they’ve experienced worsening or more frequent memory loss and/or confusion.