107 - New trends in aging and dementia in Latin America and the Caribbean Region

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and dementia has emerged as a significant societal issue and a global priority. The prevalence of dementia is rising more rapidly in low and middle income countries (LMIC) than in high income countries. Yet, knowledge of dementia risk factors is dominated by research from high income countries (HIC), which cannot be readily translated to LMIC. Latin American countries (LAC) have unique challenges related to dementia, including rapid aging population, high admixture degree and risk factors profile, which influence the prevalence and presentation of dementia. Several epidemiological studies during the past decade have shown a rapid increase of dementia in LAC, but the impact of genetic, protective and risk factors remain poorly understood. This research session will feature a series of short and engaging talks about new trends of dementia in the region and will answer key questions regarding dementia determinants and consequences in Hispanic populations. Participants will be first introduced to the aging process in LAC, prevalence and incidence of dementia within the region. The second presentation will report on genetics of Alzheimer disease in Hispanic populations. The third presenter will discuss the complexities of dementia multimorbidity and the impact of neuropsychiatric symptoms. The fourth presenter will discuss about Nationals and Regional Strategies to address dementia and reflects on recommendations and future directions for the region. All presentations will be based on findings from multiple research projects across the region. Furthermore, presenters will extended comparison to Non-Hispanics whites and Hispanics populations living in US, which allows cross countries/society comparisons. Overall, new information about dementia will be shared with the audience. Attendees will be able to identify the unique genetic and social determinants that drive AD in LAC. Recommendations will be given for preventive strategies tailored to LMIC. The findings to be shared will be essential for building evidence-based interventions that achieve the goals of the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease.