Knowledge and beliefs about dementia among the general public: A preliminary report on the Cuban population

Abstract

Background: The number of people diagnosed with dementia globally has dramatically increased in recent years. The objective of this study was to explore beliefs and knowledge among the Cuban population with regard to the risk factors that may lead to dementia and the actions that may be taken to prevent it.

Method: In an exploratory cross-sectional study, we surveyed a total of 391 people aged between 18 and 96 years. The results were stratified by sex, age range, level of education, and contact with dementia.

Results: Dementia was the fourth most worrying disease. A total of 64.5% of participants believed that the risk of dementia could be reduced, and 60% that the appropriate time to begin prevention measures is after the age of 40. Cognitive stimulation and healthy diet were more frequently cited as useful activities to reduce risk. Survey respondents reported little presence in their lifestyle of behaviours that are beneficial for reducing the risk of dementia.

Conclusions: Although dementia is an important health issue for respondents, their knowledge about disease prevention is still insufficient. The results obtained constitute a starting point for the design of policies aimed at increasing knowledge about the disease and improving prevention.

Keywords: Cognitive health; Comportamientos saludables; Demencia; Dementia; Health promotion; Healthy behaviour; Promoción de salud; Salud cognitiva.