A new US-led study has found that the risk factors for dementia among Indians differ significantly from those seen in Western populations, highlighting the need for prevention strategies tailored to the country’s unique health profile. Researchers say metabolic disorders, hearing loss, undernutrition, and limited education play a greater role in dementia risk in India than factors commonly associated with high-income countries.
Diabetes and Hearing Loss Emerge as Key Risks
The review, which analysed 25 years of research on dementia in India, found that South Asians tend to develop diabetes earlier in life, often despite having a normal body weight. Since diabetes can double or even triple the risk of dementia, researchers identified it as one of the most significant modifiable risk factors.
The study also reported that hearing loss, which affects nearly 41% of Indian adults, is associated with a substantially higher risk of dementia. In addition, physical inactivity, undernutrition, untreated vision impairment, and limited education contribute significantly to the country’s dementia burden. According to a report published by The Print, these findings underscore the importance of addressing India-specific risk factors rather than relying solely on evidence from Western populations.
Women and Rural Communities More Vulnerable
Researchers observed that dementia is more common among women in India and appears to be more prevalent in rural areas, where risk factors often remain undiagnosed or untreated. They also noted that, unlike Western countries where obesity is a major contributor, undernutrition continues to be an important concern in the Indian population.
Need for Long-Term Research
Published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia, the study calls for long-term research focused on the Indian population to better understand modifiable risk factors and develop effective prevention strategies. The findings will also support the South Asian Middle Age Risk Tracking for Brain Health (SAMARTH) study, which aims to improve understanding of dementia risk among South Asians and guide future public health interventions.
