Cognitive Impairment and Dementia Prevalence in the Northern Region of Peru: An Epidemiological Overview

• DOI: 10.1002/alz.092445
• Publication Date: 2025-01-09T11:46:42Z
• Authors: Jonathan Adrian Z...; Leandro Aron Pere...; Milagros del Roci...; Harold Alessandro...; Viviana Nayelli G...; Reyna Elizabeth A...; María del Rosario...; Eduardo Sebastián...; Maria Celinda Cru...; Nobuko Vásquez‐Zuñe; Sheila Castro‐Suarez; Carmen Paredes Ma...; Lisseth Catherime...; Ernesto Sebastian...; Leslie Magdalena ...; Zaraíd Maria Chan...; Mariana Villegas; Julio Inga; Sintia Vásquez; Karolay Lluén Nav...; Erick Muñoz; Nilson Domínguez; Julio Ramírez; Nataly Diaz; Nelson Salinas; Johnny Ramos; Patricia Ventura; Deliz Liza Serrán; Josetty Coronado

Abstract Background The prevalence of dementia in Peru’s northern regions is poorly documented, largely due to the scarcity studies employing validated assessment tools for elderly. Notably, this area marked by pronounced disparities, encompassing a wide range socioeconomic statuses and predominantly low educational attainment. confluence risk factors, including deprivation, prevalent diseases, suboptimal health conditions, chronic stress, lifelong malnutrition, poses significant escalating cases over next two decades. Objective This study aims ascertain cognitive impairment among socioeconomically diverse cohort individuals aged 50 above Chiclayo, attending various community settings such as Senior Centers, Nursing Homes, neighborhood groups. It zeroes on region, notorious its disparities attributed variances. Methods Employing descriptive epidemiological approach with cross‐sectional design, utilizes two‐stage cluster sampling methodology. To date, 400 participants from region have been evaluated. includes screenings pinpoint deficits functionality issues, alongside exclusion potential emotional disorders. Results Initial findings 99 qualifying reveal Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale ‐ Peru (RUDAS‐P) an effective tool identifying populations limited education. Despite varied backgrounds, 25% exhibited impairment, 16% showed signs, aligning other national studies. evaluation executive functions unveiled inter‐group However, universally diminished performance score across all participants, control group, was observed, likely attributable amalgamation factors malnutrition unmanaged conditions like diabetes hypertension. Conclusion research strives generate data Chiclayo’s elderly, mirroring area’s socio‐economic diversity. By spotlighting challenges pathological aging underscores critical need heightened public awareness proactive brain maintenance thwart onset.