Globally, more than 55 million people live with dementia, with approximately 1.76 million in Brazil
Living in areas with high social vulnerability can significantly increase the risk of, as a study by the Rush University, published in Neurology journal. The research, which accompanied 6,781 elderly, revealed that those who reside in poorer neighborhoods have more than twice the likelihood of developing compared to those living in more favored regions. In addition, the deterioration of cognitive functions occurs faster in these locations. The social determinants of health play a crucial role in the incidence of dementia, even when individual factors, such as age and educational level, are considered. Globally, more than 55 million people live with dementia, with approximately 1.76 million in Brazil. To ensure healthy aging, it is essential to improve the living conditions of vulnerable populations.
Dementia should not be seen as an inevitable consequence of aging, but as a result of various conditions that affect cognition. Risk factors that can be modified, such as hypertension, diabetes and social isolation, are responsible for up to 45% of dementia cases. Research suggests that the accumulation of lifelong risk factors increases the likelihood of cognitive decline. People living in needy communities are more exposed to conditions that favor the accumulation of risks to mental health. Low education and mental health problems, such as depression, are the main factors that contribute to cognitive decline in Brazil. Understanding the social determinants of health is essential to address the relationship between socioeconomic factors and neurological diseases.
To face this issue, it is necessary to implement public health strategies that integrate different sectors, such as education, housing and safety. Examples of successful initiatives in other countries, such as the UK Dementia Prevention Program, demonstrate the effectiveness of intersectoral approaches. In Brazil, the National Policy of Integral Care for People with Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia, established in 2024, aims to improve diagnosis and treatment, although it still faces challenges such as underdiagnosis. Given the rapid aging of the Brazilian population, it is vital to focus efforts on reducing social vulnerability to reduce the risk of dementia.
Posted by Sarah Paula
*Report produced with the aid of AI
