Research Links Dementia Prevalence to Cardiometabolic Diseases Across U.S. Regions

A recent study conducted by the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix highlights a significant correlation between dementia and cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) across different regions of the United States. The findings suggest that by addressing these underlying health conditions, many cases of dementia could potentially be prevented.

Published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia, the research indicates that approximately 37% of dementia cases can be directly linked to various CMDs, which include diabetes, chronic heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and ischemic heart disease. Notably, the study found that hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and chronic heart failure are the leading contributors among these conditions.

As the number of Americans aged 65 and older living with Alzheimer's disease continues to rise--currently estimated at 6.7 million and projected to reach 13 million by 2050--this study underscores the importance of addressing CMDs as a preventive measure against dementia.

According to the research, mitigating modifiable risk factors associated with CMDs could significantly reduce the incidence of dementia. The study's authors estimate that eliminating eight specific CMD risk factors could lead to a 37% reduction in new dementia cases among Medicare beneficiaries. Even a more realistic goal of a 15% reduction in these risk factors could still result in a notable 6.3% decrease in dementia cases.

Utilizing advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS), the study mapped the geospatial patterns of CMDs and their impact on dementia incidence, revealing distinct regional differences. The strongest correlations were found in the Southern United States, where higher rates of obesity, inadequate physical activity, and unhealthy dietary habits contribute to increased dementia risk. In contrast, regions such as the Pacific Northwest and the Rocky Mountains exhibited significantly lower links between CMDs and dementia.

The research utilized data from over 20 million Medicare beneficiaries across the United States, which included both dementia cases and controls. By focusing on individuals aged 67 to 110 who were enrolled in Medicare Part A and/or B, the study offered a comprehensive overview of how CMDs affect dementia rates on a national scale.

Despite the significant findings, the researchers acknowledged certain limitations, particularly concerning the exclusion of individuals with Medicare Advantage plans, which do not provide detailed claims data. The research was supported by various foundations, including the Barrow Neurological Foundation and the Moreno Family.

This study emphasizes the need for targeted public health strategies that aim to reduce cardiometabolic diseases as a means of decreasing dementia prevalence, especially in regions where the risk is notably high.