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Characterizing the Prevalence of Dementia Risk Factors in Moderate-to-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury
Gershon Spitz1,2,3, Ruby Phyland1, Matthew P Pase2
1Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, School of Psychological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Melbourne, Australia.
Journal of Neurotrauma
|August 5, 2026
Summary
Adults with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) have distinct dementia risk factors, including poor hearing and mental health, not a globally higher risk burden. Targeted interventions are needed.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Public Health
- Gerontology
Background:
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant public health concern.
- Understanding modifiable dementia risk factors post-TBI is crucial for prevention strategies.
- Previous research indicates TBI may influence long-term cognitive health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the burden of modifiable dementia risk factors in adults with moderate-to-severe TBI versus healthy controls.
- To identify specific risk factor profiles associated with TBI history.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional observational study involving 106 adults with moderate-to-severe TBI (≥1 year post-injury) and 106 matched healthy controls.
- Self-report measures assessed sensory, mental health, lifestyle, and cardiometabolic risk factors.
- A composite score quantified overall modifiable risk burden.
Main Results:
- The TBI group reported significantly poorer hearing, more depressive symptoms, lower social engagement, higher smoking prevalence, and worse sleep quality.
- No significant differences were found in vascular and metabolic health profiles.
- The overall composite risk score did not differ significantly between groups.
Conclusions:
- Individuals with moderate-to-severe TBI exhibit a specific pattern of modifiable dementia risks, not a generalized increase.
- Interventions should target auditory health, mental well-being, social participation, smoking cessation, and sleep quality post-TBI.
- This highlights the need for tailored surveillance and management strategies to mitigate dementia risk after TBI.
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01:30Dementia
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The progression of dementia is generally gradual.
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