Mendelian Randomization Analysis to Assess Whether Magnetic Resonance Imaging Signs of Cerebral Small Vessel Disease Can Cause Cognitive Decline and Dementia

This Mendelian randomization study provides evidence that lacunar stroke and white matter lesions can cause cognitive decline, and that white matter hyperintensity may increase risk of dementia due to Parkinson's disease. These results underscore the need for further investigations into the neurocognitive effects of cerebral small vessel disease.