Characteristic differences in the mini-mental state examination used in Asian countries

BMC Neurology

Yong S. Shim¹  Hee-Jin Kim²  SangYun Kim³  Young Ho Park³  Dong Won Yang⁴ 

[1] Department of Neurology, Bucheon St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea;Department of Neurology, College of Medicine, Hanyang University;Department of Neurology, Seoul National University College of Medicine & Clinical Neuroscience Center, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital;Department of Neurology, Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea;

关键词: Mini-mental state examination;    Culture;    Asia;    Multi-national studies;    Cognitive screening test;   

DOI  :  10.1186/s12883-017-0925-z

来源: DOAJ

【 摘 要 】

Abstract Background The mini-mental state examination (MMSE) was adapted by individual countries according to their languages and cultures, though it has not been systematically compared. The objective of this study was to compare the linguistic and cultural variations of the MMSE used in various Asian countries. With this, we can analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the MMSE and consider using a common version in future international clinical studies in Asia. Methods We collected the MMSEs used in 11 Asian nations. After translating those into English, we compared them to understand the differences in the questionnaires with regard to cultural aspects. Results Many items may be applicable or comparable with a little modification, for Asian countries. However, attention and calculation and repetition may be incomparable. There were some differences in the contents and the ways to administer. Conclusions The lack of consideration of the cultural differences and their influences on the interpretation of the same cognitive test makes cross-cultural studies difficult. Some items of MMSE tasks need readjusting for, if any, multi-national studies. This study might serve as a first step in the development of a standardized cross-cultural cognitive instrument, especially in Asia.

【 授权许可】

Unknown