Abstract
ABSTRACTInternational organizations estimate that a new dementia is diagnosed every 3 s.Objectives:To explore the knowledge and beliefs among a cross-section of the adult population of Cuba with regard to dementia risk factors and to determine the demographic variables related with it. A cross-sectional survey was carried out on 1,004 Cubans.Methods:The survey measured the importance placed on dementia, risk reduction knowledge, and the actions to prevent it. Logistic regression was undertaken to identify variables associated with knowledge.Results:Many respondents (47.5%) believe that dementia risk reduction should start before the age of 40. Cognitive stimulation and physical activities were selected with major frequency. Being older than 48 years, having previous contact with dementia, and university education increases the probability of having healthy lifestyles.Conclusions:The exploration of demographic variables allows the prediction of likelihood to know about or have positive beliefs in relation to dementia. They should be contemplated into strategies for dementia prevention in Cuban population.
Highlights
International organizations estimate that a new dementia is diagnosed every 3 s.1 The number of cases will be marked more in low- and middle-income countries that will experience more than two-third of all cases
The main objective of the present study was to explore knowledge and beliefs among a cross-section of Cuban adults with regard to the risk factors that may lead to dementia, and the actions that may be taken to prevent it
The study shows that many Cubans do not recognize dementia as a health priority, the results for this question are better to those from some other countries.[14,29]
Summary
International organizations estimate that a new dementia is diagnosed every 3 s.1 The number of cases will be marked more in low- and middle-income countries that will experience more than two-third of all cases. Latin America constitutes one of the regions that will be more affected in 20 years, with an increase of dementia diagnosis by 146%.2. Around 40% worldwide dementia can be attributed to 12 risk factors Those 12 risk factors are potentially modifiable during life-course to dementia prevention, and requires both public health programs and individually tailored interventions.[3] For example, a healthy lifestyle and controlling cardiovascular risk factors may be able to reduce a third of all cases of dementia diagnosed.[4,5,6] In Latin American) countries, the dementia prevention potential is greater than in high-income countries. According to a recent study, the overall weighted population attributable fractions for potentially modifiable risk factors for dementia in LA countries is around 55%.7
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