PREVALENCE OF RISK FACTORS FOR DEMENTIA AND THE ASSOCIATION WITH COGNITIVE CHANGES IN AN ELDERLY POPULATION AT A BASIC HEALTH UNIT IN LONDRINA (Atena Editora)

Abstract

The number of older people is increasing globally, including those living with dementia. Dementia is currently the seventh leading cause of death worldwide and a leading cause of disability and dependence among older people. The Lancet Commission's 2020 update on dementia prevention and care highlights evidence for 12 modifiable risk factors, suggesting that up to 40% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by eliminating exposure to such factors. Given the increase in the elderly population and cases of dementia, it is understood that preventive actions focusing on modifiable risk factors and early detection of dementia cases are necessary. The methodology was based on a cross-sectional, quantitative and descriptive study. Cognitive screening was carried out in patients aged 60 and over in an area of the territory of a Basic Health Unit in Londrina, using the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and research into 12 (twelve) risk factors for dementia from of a previously prepared questionnaire, with questions about: education, hypertension, hearing impairment, smoking, obesity, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes, social isolation, excessive alcohol consumption, head trauma and exposure to pollution. The interviews were carried out from August to October 2022. 133 individuals were selected and 73 interviews were carried out. The exclusion criteria were: bedridden elderly people, with compromised mobility and inability to communicate understandably. Statistical analysis was carried out using the SPSS program, using Pearson's chi-square tests at a significance level of 5%. It is understood from the results that the present study identified a significant association between altered MMSE and education, with a p-value of 0.016. Of the illiterate patients, 47.6% showed changes in the MMSE. Among individuals with 1 to 4 years of education, 82.8% had altered MMSE. It is concluded that cognitive changes can be associated with education, as evidenced in other studies. However, the need for more studies on cognitive assessment instruments must be considered, as low education can influence its results, in order to avoid diagnostic errors. Furthermore, it is necessary to continue scientific research in Primary Health Care, focusing on risk factors for dementia, as prevention measures can reduce its risk.