Prevalence and factors associated with dementia in Lesotho: A cross-sectional, population-based study

Limited research has examined dementia prevalence and associated factors in Lesotho. This study investigates dementia prevalence and the associated factors in Lesotho.

A survey in Lesotho included 1738 participants screened for dementia and potential associated factors with a focus on modifiable factors. Associations were evaluated using logistic regression models.

The median age was 66 years, with 54.83% women. The prevalence of dementia was 4.89%. Those with depressive symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.97, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39-11.30), age ≥ 75 (aOR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.42-5.04), and underweight (aOR 2.30, 95% CI: 1.23-4.29) had increased odds of dementia. Those with moderate (aOR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.17-0.58) to high (aOR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.16-0.77) physical activity and obesity (aOR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.11-0.80) presented lower odds for dementia.

This study provides a contemporary estimate of dementia prevalence in Lesotho, highlighting an association with modifiable factors.

In Lesotho there is a probable dementia prevalence of 4.89%, aligning with regional estimates for Africa. Depression, older age, being underweight, and low physical activity were associated with increased odds of dementia. Moderate to high physical activity and obesity were associated with lower dementia odds. Further study of the association of dementia with potentially modifiable factors in low- and middle-income countries is warranted.