Top 5 Takeaways

1. Increased Risk with Subjective Cognitive Decline (SCD): Adults aged ≥45 with SCD are significantly more likely to report multiple risk factors for Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD) compared to those without SCD.
2. Prevalence of Modifiable Risk Factors: High blood pressure and insufficient physical activity were the most common risk factors, each affecting nearly half of the studied population.
3. Demographic Disparities: The prevalence of risk factors for ADRD varies significantly among different racial and ethnic groups, with higher rates observed in American Indian or Alaska Native, Black or African American, and Hispanic populations.
4. Public Health Implications: Addressing modifiable risk factors through targeted public health strategies can support the National Plan’s goal to reduce ADRD risk and promote healthy aging.
5. Research and Policy Recommendations: Early detection of SCD and related risk factors could facilitate interventions to slow ADRD progression, highlighting the need for tailored health strategies and policies.

Original Article Author and Citation

Corresponding Author

John D. Omura, ydk8@cdc.gov

Suggested Citation

Omura JD, McGuire LC, Patel R, et al. Modifiable Risk Factors for Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias Among Adults Aged ≥45 Years — United States, 2019. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2022;71:680–685. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7120a2.

Summary

The report highlights a significant correlation between subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and the presence of multiple modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer disease and related dementias (ADRD) in adults aged ≥45 years. SCD is used as an early indicator of possible future ADRD.

Methods

Data were analyzed from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 2019, focusing on eight modifiable risk factors in adults from 31 states and DC. Statistical analysis was used to establish prevalence and correlations.

Discussion

The study reveals high prevalence rates of ADRD risk factors, especially among marginalized racial and ethnic groups. Public health efforts to mitigate these risks could leverage findings to improve health equity and ADRD outcomes.

Conclusion

The findings support the National Plan to reduce ADRD risk through addressing modifiable factors and underscore the importance of early detection and intervention strategies.

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