Neurodegeneration from the AT(N) framework is different among Mexican Americans compared to non‐Hispanic Whites: A Health & Aging Brain among Latino Elders (HABLE) Study

INTRODUCTION: We sought to examine a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐based marker of neurodegeneration from the AT(N) (amyloid/tau/neurodegeneration) framework among a multi‐ethnic, community‐dwelling cohort. METHODS: Community‐dwelling Mexican Americans and non‐Hispanic White adults and elders were recruited. All participants underwent comprehensive assessments including an interview, functional exam, clinical labs, informant interview, neuropsychological testing and 3T MRI of the brain. A neurodegeneration MRI meta‐region of interest (ROI) biomarker for the AT(N) framework was calculated. RESULTS: Data were examined from n = 1305 participants. Mexican Americans experienced N at significantly younger ages. The N biomarker was significantly associated with cognitive outcomes. N was significantly impacted by cardiovascular factors (e.g., total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein) among non‐Hispanic Whites whereas diabetes (glucose, HbA1c, duration of diabetes) and sociocultural (household income, acculturation) factors were strongly associated with N among Mexican Americans. DISCUSSION: The prevalence, progression, timing, and sequence of the AT(N) biomarkers must be examined across diverse populations.