Modifiable Risk Factors for Dementia in Older Patients Receiving Primary Care: A Retrospective Observational Study
Abstract
Background: Dementia represents a major global public health challenge in aging populations, requiring effective primary care identification and prevention strategies. This study evaluated the prevalence and clinical significance of 11 modifiable risk factors among older adults within a primary healthcare setting. Methods: An observational, retrospective-analytical study was conducted in January 2025 within a family medicine team panel (N = 1122). Participants aged 65 and older were divided into two cohorts: patients with diagnosed dementia (n = 20) and a comparative group without dementia (n = 50). Data on 11 modifiable risk factors were extracted using medical records and clinical anamnesis. Continuous variables were analyzed using Student’s independent samples t-test, while categorical variables were evaluated using Pearson’s chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test (p < 0.05). Results: Patients with dementia were significantly older (85.50 ± 4.83 vs. 80.34 ± 4.10 years; p < 0.05). Lower educational level was frequent among dementia patients, with 55% (n = 11) having completed primary education compared to 32% (n = 16) in controls (p = 0.160). Obesity (BMI > 30 kg/m²) was significantly less frequent in the dementia group (5%, n = 1 vs. 48%, n = 24; p < 0.05). Arterial hypertension showed a lower prevalence in dementia patients (85%, n = 17 vs. 98%, n = 49; p = 0.038). Hearing impairment was present in all participants (100%). In late life, physical inactivity (90%, n = 18 vs. 74%, n = 37; p = 0.141), social isolation (60%, n = 12 vs. 66%, n = 33; p = 0.636), and depression (55%, n = 11 vs. 64%, n = 32; p = 0.485) showed high overall prevalence across both cohorts without statistically significant group differences. Conclusion: Modifiable risk factors for dementia are highly prevalent among geriatric primary care patients, representing a widespread cumulative burden. Early identification and systematic screening in family medicine are essential to optimize cognitive health management.