Epidemiology of dementia in an Ecuadorian mental health institution

Background: This study examines the prevalence and incidence of dementia in Ecuador, with a focus on understanding demographic and social factors associated with increased risk. Data were obtained from the Institute of Neurosciences of Guayaquil, covering patient records from 2010 to 2022. Objective: The purpose was to identify prevalence trends and key risk factors to inform targeted prevention and early intervention efforts in high-risk groups. Methods: This observational, correlational study analyzed patient data to estimate dementia prevalence and incidence. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics to calculate overall and age-specific prevalence rates, while incidence was calculated per 1000 person-years. Correlations and chi-square analyses were used to evaluate associations between dementia and potential risk factors, including age, gender, education level, and marital status. Results: The overall prevalence of dementia was 3.1%, with higher rates among women (1.8%) compared to men (1.3%). Dementia incidence was calculated at 2.4 per 1000 person-years. Prevalence increased significantly with age, from 1.2% in individuals aged 65–69 to 54.8% in those aged 95 and older. Advanced age, female gender, lower education levels, and lack of a marital partner were associated with higher dementia prevalence. Conclusions: These findings highlight a rising dementia prevalence in Ecuador, particularly among women and older individuals, with social and educational factors contributing to increased risk. The results underscore the need for tailored dementia prevention and early intervention strategies, especially as prevalence rates continue to rise across Latin America.