Dementia prevention and the GP’s role: a qualitative interview study

Abstract

Background GPs play an increasingly important role in proactively preventing dementia. Dementia in 40% of patients could be prevented or delayed by targeting 12 modifiable risk factors throughout life. However, little is known about how GPs perceive their role in dementia prevention and the associated barriers. Aim To explore the role of GPs in dementia prevention. Design and setting Qualitative study among UK GPs. Method Semi-structured online interviews were conducted with 11 UK GPs exploring their views regarding their role in dementia prevention. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results GPs reported that they never explicitly discuss dementia risk with patients, even when patients are presenting with risk factors, but acknowledge that dementia prevention should be part of their role. They advocate for adopting a whole team approach to primary care preventive practice, using long-term condition/medication reviews or NHS health checks as a platform to enable dementia risk communication targeting already at-risk individuals. Barriers included a lack of time and an absence of knowledge and education about the modifiable dementia risk factors, as well as a reluctance to use ‘dementia’ as a term within the appointment for fear of causing health anxiety. ‘Brain health’ was perceived as offering a more encouraging discursive tool for primary care practitioners, supporting communication and behaviour change. Conclusion There needs to be a whole-systems shift towards prioritising brain health and supporting primary care professionals in their preventive role. Education is key to underpinning this role in dementia prevention.