Systematic review of what people know about brain health

As we age our cognitive abilities can change. However, the degree of change experienced is influenced by a range of factors. To understand what the public know about risk and protective factors for cognitive ageing, a systematic review was conducted of studies considering what people know about brain health.

The search strategy included quantitative and qualitative studies in English, including interviews, focus groups, questionnaires, surveys of beliefs about brain health (including predictions, opinions) in generally healthy adults. PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science were used for published peer-reviewed literature; and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses and National Grey Literature Collection, PsycExtra and Google searches for grey literature.

From 37,197 records, one hundred and one were included, comprising 71 quantitative (22 grey literature), 27 qualitative (1 grey literature) and 3 mixed-methods (1 grey literature). Studies were grouped into three themes: Concerns about cognitive ageing, Opportunities to promote brain health and Understanding dementia risk reduction and prevention.

Studies reported varying levels of knowledge of brain health, alongside some suggestions for brain health that were somewhat superficial and not always consistent with scientific consensus. There were differences between groups of participants who exhibited less knowledge of brain health, for example, men, older adults, those with lower education and incomes, and ethnic minorities. This review highlights the need for clear messaging around opportunities to promote brain health, including scientifically-endorsed lifestyle factors and more information on the mechanisms by which they operate.