Cognitive Function Status among Students at Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Egypt

Background: Cognitive function is vital for academic success, particularly among medical students who face substantial mental challenges.
Aim: This study aimed to explore the cognitive function status among Tanta University medical students and the risk factors for cognitive impairment.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 464 students by applying cluster random sample, using a structured, self- administered validated questionnaire covering sociodemographic data, dietary and sleep habits, physical activity, smartphone use, stress levels, and cognitive function which was assessed using cognitive failure questionnaire 2.0 (CFQ 2.0).
Results: More than half of the studied medical students had no cognitive impairment, 31.3% were borderline, and 10.3% exhibited cognitive impairment. Female students, those in the third and fourth academic years, and participants engaging in physical activity less than three days per week were more likely to experience cognitive decline. Significant associations were observed between cognitive impairment and insomnia, smartphone addiction, and elevated stress levels (p<0.001). Moreover, a previous history of COVID-19 infection and a family history of dementia were linked to higher rates of impairment. Multivariate analysis confirmed that female sex, insufficient physical activity, insomnia, smartphone addiction, and higher levels of stress were the strongest independent predictors of poor cognitive performance.
Conclusion: Cognitive impairment is prevalent among a considerable proportion of students and it is associated with several modifiable and non- modifiable factors.