PS-C28-1: EARLY DETECTION OF DEMENTIA AT COMMUNITY PHARMACIES USING SIMPLE TOUCH PANEL SCREENING CHECK

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine whether a simple touch panel screening check for dementia (TPCD) would be effective for early detection of dementia at community pharmacies. Design and Methods: This was a prospective study of adult visitors presenting to a pharmacy adjacent to a university hospital (Project 1) or to a general physician clinic (Project 2). Participants were voluntarily recruited in the pharmacies and were registered after written informed consent. To evaluate the cognitive function of participants, we scored immediate and recent memories of words, time orientation, figure recognition using a Forgetfulness Consultation Program MSP-1100 (Nihon Kohden, Tokyo). When the score was or less than 12 out of 15 points, participants were suspected as having dementia and recommended to visit the psychiatric outpatient clinic of the university hospital (Project 1) or to visit the general physician (Project 2). On the next visit to the pharmacy, the participants were asked whether they had received the consultation of the psychiatric specialists. Results: [Project 1] TPCD was conducted on 81 individuals (35 men) from January 2019 to January 2020. One was excluded because of agreement withdrawal and another was excluded because he had already been treated for dementia at another clinic. Of 79 participants, 17 (21.5%, 8 men) were suspected as having dementia and were recommended to visit the psychiatric clinic. Two participant visited psychiatric specialists and were diagnosed as having mild cognitive impairment. Four consulted with their family physicians but have not yet visit the psychiatric clinic. Eleven refused the consultation. [Project 2] Currently, TPCD was conducted on 30 individuals (8 men) and 10 (33.3%, 3 men) were suspected to having dementia from January 2021 to April 2022. The recruitment is now ongoing. Conclusion: This preliminary analysis suggests that TPCD in pharmacies may be effective for early detection of dementia. It is necessary to strengthen the pass to support the consultation visit to psychiatric specialists.