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A controlled study of survival with dementia
D C Martin1, J K Miller, W Kapoor
1Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, PA 15213.
Archives of Neurology
|November 1, 1987
Summary
Dementia significantly increases mortality risk, with a 1.92 relative risk. However, survival rates for dementia patients may be better than previously thought, suggesting improved care.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neurology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Conflicting data exist on dementia's impact on mortality.
- The comparative mortality risk between Alzheimer's disease and multi-infarct dementia is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between dementia and mortality.
- To compare the mortality risks of Alzheimer's disease and multi-infarct dementia.
Main Methods:
- Historic prospective study design.
- Matched cohort of 202 dementia patients and 202 non-demented controls from a geriatric clinic.
- Multivariate analysis accounting for relevant covariates.
Main Results:
- Three-year survival rates were 70% for dementia patients and 84% for controls.
- Dementia was associated with a 1.92 relative risk of mortality (95% CI [1.25, 2.97]).
- Multi-infarct dementia patients showed poorer survival than Alzheimer's patients, though not statistically significant.
Conclusions:
- Dementia is a significant risk factor for increased mortality.
- Survival in dementia patients might be better than previously reported, potentially due to advancements in care.