Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (v4) Military Battery: Military Normative Data

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The Automated Neuropsychological Assessment Metrics (ANAM®) is a validated computerized cognitive assessment battery that has been routinely used for cognitive health assessments for active duty service members. The purpose of the current study was to provide updated normative data for the ANAM Military-Expanded battery. Materials and Methods This study was a retrospective review of deidentified predeployment baseline data obtained for service members completing ANAM as part of the mandated Department of Defense clinical testing policy. The effects of age, gender, race/ethnicity, and education were examined for all subtests and descriptive measures of performance were computed. Rates of low scores were also examined. Results Data from 1,067,899 active duty service members (88% male) were analyzed and represented all services and the Coast Guard. The sample ranged in age from 17 to 65 years (mean = 28.1, standard deviation [SD] = 8.4) was 66% White with a majority having education of 12 years or less (72%). Generally, small effect sizes were observed for each of the demographic factors with the largest effects observed for age. Rates of low scores on two or more tests in the battery were 10.6% using a more conservative cutpoint (≥1.3 SD below the mean) or 2.4% using the most stringent cutpoint (≥2 SD below the mean). Conclusions The current norms provide an update to previously published normative data and represent the largest, most representative set of data currently available for military personnel. Enhancements over previous norms include an expanded sample size, stratification by age (5-year increments), gender, race/ethnicity and education, and inclusion of all 10 tests in the ANAM Military-Expanded battery. These data are provided to assist healthcare providers using ANAM to assess and manage service member health.