VeryWell Mind: Study Finds Significant Differences in Dementia Based on Race and Ethnicity

"A new study found that Black and Hispanic seniors may be at greater risk of dementia than older individuals of American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, or white backgrounds.

Understanding the Research

This study was based on a retrospective analysis of information from 1869090 participants, of which, 0.4% were American Indian/Alaska Native, 0.5% were Asian, 9.5% were Black, 1% were Hispanic, and 88.6% were white, from which, 13% received a diagnosis of dementia.

The incidence of dementia, when compared with white veterans, was at a ratio of 1.05 for American Indian/Alaska Native participants, 1.20 for Asian veterans, 1.54 for Black participants, and 1.92 for Hispanic veterans.

Early Screening for Dementia is Crucial

Behavioral health medical director at Community Health of South Florida Inc., psychiatrist Howard Pratt, DO, says, “The study is thorough in that it sampled nearly two million people over a two-year span only to reveal the importance of access to healthcare and of healthcare literacy."

Dr. Pratt explains, “Regardless of your race and cultural background, you need to be aware that all groups are at risk for dementia. One’s own quality of life as well as the quality of life for one’s family and close ones will be improved with early diagnosis.”

Dr. Pratt highlights, “It’s also very important to understand the risk factors for dementia, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, stroke, transient ischemic attack, post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury and alcohol use disorders. Neglecting the treatment of these conditions puts you at significantly higher risk for dementia."

When memory loss is first pointed out, Dr. Pratt highlights that it may be met with denial, but if memory loss is noticed, it is important to get tested, as screening for dementia is simple. "It’s just about asking a few questions and there are no tricks to the test,” he says.

In his practice, Dr. Pratt has had the pleasure of treating several people who have dementia, but went on to improve their quality of life after being diagnosed. "With the acceptance of their diagnosis, fears of vulnerability faded, and quality of life improved,” he says.

Trauma Increases Risk of Dementia

Shelton highlights that it would be interesting to know if the earlier duties of the veterans who were diagnosed with dementia included combat training. "I wish the public would better understand the link between education and cognitive testing," she says.

Having worked with veterans and those within the geriatric community, Shelton notes the impact of trauma and its correlation with dementia or dementia-like symptoms.

Dementia Requires Greater Public Attention

Neuropsychologist and director of neuropsychology for the Pacific Neuroscience Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, Stella Panos, PhD, says, "The authors of this study discussed several factors that may influence these findings, including socioeconomic and other structural factors, health effects of racism, other social determinants of health, and decreased cognitive reserve because of unequal access to educational opportunities or quality."

Panos highlights, "Awareness that these differences are present is crucial, as is more support (e.g., research) to better address these differences. This adds to a growing body of health disparities research in dementia."

Panos highlights, "While there is no cure for neurodegenerative illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease, we know that there are many benefits to early assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.""

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