Explore the vast range of titles available.

Vascular dementia (VaD) is the second most common form of dementia globally, resulting from impaired blood flow to the brain. In Ethiopia, where non-communicable diseases are rising, understanding the prevalence and risk factors of VaD is critical for public health planning. However, limited research exists on VaD in this low-resource setting. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of VaD and identify associated risk factors among adults in Ethiopia. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted at Lancet General Hospital, a multispecialty private center located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from January 2023 to December 2024. Adults aged 50 years and older who presented with memory, cognitive and behavioral complaints were enrolled consecutively. Data were collected through structured interviews, clinical assessments, and cognitive screening using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). Vascular dementia was diagnosed based on DSM-5 criteria. Risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease, were assessed using standardized tools. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for VaD. A total of 155 dementia patients were enrolled. The median age was 70 years and it ranges from 50-92 years. Males accounted 56.2%. The prevalence of VaD was found to be 71%. Hypertension (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.7-3.1), diabetes (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.3-2.8), and dyslipidemia (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.2-2.4) were significantly associated with VaD. Older age and low educational attainment were also independently associated with increased risk of VaD. Vascular dementia is a significant public health issue in Ethiopia, particularly among older adults with cardiovascular risk factors and low literacy. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions to control modifiable risk factors, such as physical activity and proper management of hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Public health strategies which promote healthy lifestyle and adult education are important to reduce the growing burden of dementia in Ethiopia.

Rising prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) highlights an urgent need for effective cognitive assessment tools tailored to this region. Existing tools are often culturally and linguistically inappropriate and have inadequate validity and reliability. We report findings from Ethiopia on adapting cognitive tools incorporating local cultural and social contexts. Our work aims to identify challenges in adapting widely used ADRD cognitive assessments in Ethiopia, and explore social, cultural, and linguistic factors influencing cognitive performance. Using a mixed-methods approach, we evaluated the cultural applicability of widely used paper-and-pencil and digital cognitive tools in urban Ethiopian setting. The study incorporated ethnographic observations, focus group discussions with local communities and normative data development. By July 2024, 100 healthy older adults (age: 62.1±9.1, 60% female, education: 8.0±5.5) who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria harmonized with the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center protocols were enrolled. Qualitative thematic analysis and multiple linear regression models were used to present the results. Thematic analyses indicated challenges related to high rates of screening failures (visual deficits and subjective memory complaints), negative perception of cognitive problems, and limited literacy and technology familiarity. Floor effects were identified on tasks of processing speed (Trails A = 16%, Months Backward = 11%) and motor dexterity (Grooved Pegboard = 10%). Multiple regression analyses indicated strong effects of educational attainment followed by age across most tasks, while female sex effect was present only on task of language functions (Table 1). The study emphasizes the important need for culturally adapted cognitive tools in Ethiopia. Although low literacy, stigma, and limited technology understanding pose challenges, our finding support accessibility and feasibility of neuropsychological tools for ADRD research by incorporating local languages, culturally relevant tasks, and literacy-independent assessments. Our findings inform development of culturally valid cognitive protocols by highlighting best performing internationally harmonized tasks and identifying predictors of performance. Based on our learnings, we will provide recommendations on the design of aging and ADRD studies in low resource settings in SSA including strengths and weakness of harmonized cognitive assessment protocols.

Vitamin D deficiency is linked with the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer disease. There is paucity of data on serum vitamin D level among patients from tropical countries such as Ethiopia. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and associated factors among Alzheimer disease and related dementia patients in Ethiopia. An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among patients presented with cognitive complaints and diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or Alzheimer's disease related dementia at Lancet General Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from November 1 - August 30, 2023. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained at presentation with serum vitamin D level determined subsequently. Cognitive test was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment-Basic (MOCA-B). Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis were done and measures of estimated crude and adjusted odds ratio with95% CI were constructed and a p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. A total of 60 adult patients with dementia were enrolled. The mean (SD) age of dementia patients was 69.4 (1.56) years and 56% were male. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 70% and the mean serum vitamin D level was 23.94 (1.55) ng/ml. Amnestic variant AD was detected in 45% of the participants followed by vascular dementia (35%) and Parkinson disease dementia (10%). HIV associated dementia was diagnosed in 6% of the participants. Hypertension was the most prevalent (45%) comorbidity reported in our dementia cohort. Severe vitamin D deficiency (serum vitamin D level < 10 ng/ml) was negatively association with disease severity (p = 0.01) and increased age (p = 0.003). Vitamin D deficiency was prevalent in Ethiopian dementia patients. There were strong associations between severe vitamin D deficiency and dementia severity and increment in age.

MOSD is a rare and disabling immune‐mediated inflammatory Astrocytopathic disease characterized by demyelination and axonal destruction, typically involving the spinal cord and the optic nerve. Here we present a case report of a 53‐year‐old female patient who had a pertinent history of treatment for optic neuritis a few months back, currently diagnosed with Neuromyelitis Optica after she presented with a three‐week history of weakness of lower extremity, headache, and neuropathic pain. She was pulsed with methylprednisolone and started on azathioprine, which significantly improved her clinical condition. When patients with optic neuritis and transverse myelitis occur, a high index of suspicion for NMOSD is essential. Establishing a diagnosis based on clinical and MRI findings is crucial for initiating therapy quickly, halting more harm, and avoiding a delay in diagnosis. Our experience treating our patient shows that Azathioprine is still a practical choice in resource‐limited setups.

Background Vascular dementia (VaD) is the second most common form of dementia globally, resulting from impaired blood flow to the brain. In Ethiopia, where non‐communicable diseases are rising, understanding the prevalence and risk factors of VaD is critical for public health planning. However, limited research exists on VaD in this low‐resource setting. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of VaD and identify associated risk factors among adults in Ethiopia. Method A hospital‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted at Lancet General Hospital, a multispecialty private center located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from January 2023 to December 2024. Adults aged 50 years and older who presented with memory, cognitive and behavioral complaints were enrolled consecutively. Data were collected through structured interviews, clinical assessments, and cognitive screening using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE). Vascular dementia was diagnosed based on DSM‐5 criteria. Risk factors, including hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cardiovascular disease, were assessed using standardized tools. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for VaD. Result A total of 155 dementia patients were enrolled. The median age was 70 years and it ranges from 50‐92 years. Males accounted 56.2%. The prevalence of VaD was found to be 71%. Hypertension (OR = 2.3, 95% CI: 1.7–3.1), diabetes (OR = 1.9, 95% CI: 1.3–2.8), and dyslipidemia (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.2–2.4) were significantly associated with VaD. Older age and low educational attainment were also independently associated with increased risk of VaD. Conclusion Vascular dementia is a significant public health issue in Ethiopia, particularly among older adults with cardiovascular risk factors and low literacy. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions to control modifiable risk factors, such as physical activity and proper management of hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. Public health strategies which promote healthy lifestyle and adult education are important to reduce the growing burden of dementia in Ethiopia.

Background Rising prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) in Sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) highlights an urgent need for effective cognitive assessment tools tailored to this region. Existing tools are often culturally and linguistically inappropriate and have inadequate validity and reliability. We report findings from Ethiopia on adapting cognitive tools incorporating local cultural and social contexts. Our work aims to identify challenges in adapting widely used ADRD cognitive assessments in Ethiopia, and explore social, cultural, and linguistic factors influencing cognitive performance. Method Using a mixed‐methods approach, we evaluated the cultural applicability of widely used paper‐and‐pencil and digital cognitive tools in urban Ethiopian setting. The study incorporated ethnographic observations, focus group discussions with local communities and normative data development. By July 2024, 100 healthy older adults (age: 62.1±9.1, 60% female, education: 8.0±5.5) who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria harmonized with the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center protocols were enrolled. Qualitative thematic analysis and multiple linear regression models were used to present the results. Result Thematic analyses indicated challenges related to high rates of screening failures (visual deficits and subjective memory complaints), negative perception of cognitive problems, and limited literacy and technology familiarity. Floor effects were identified on tasks of processing speed (Trails A = 16%, Months Backward = 11%) and motor dexterity (Grooved Pegboard = 10%). Multiple regression analyses indicated strong effects of educational attainment followed by age across most tasks, while female sex effect was present only on task of language functions (Table 1). Conclusion The study emphasizes the important need for culturally adapted cognitive tools in Ethiopia. Although low literacy, stigma, and limited technology understanding pose challenges, our finding support accessibility and feasibility of neuropsychological tools for ADRD research by incorporating local languages, culturally relevant tasks, and literacy‐independent assessments. Our findings inform development of culturally valid cognitive protocols by highlighting best performing internationally harmonized tasks and identifying predictors of performance. Based on our learnings, we will provide recommendations on the design of aging and ADRD studies in low resource settings in SSA including strengths and weakness of harmonized cognitive assessment protocols.

Background Vitamin D deficiency is linked with the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer disease. There is paucity of data on serum vitamin D level among patients from tropical countries such as Ethiopia. The objective of this study is to determine the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and associated factors among Alzheimer disease and related dementia patients in Ethiopia. Method An institution‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among patients presented with cognitive complaints and diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease related dementia at Lancet General Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from November 1 – August 30, 2023. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained at presentation with serum vitamin D level determined subsequently. Cognitive test was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment‐Basic (MOCA‐B). Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis were done and measures of estimated crude and adjusted odds ratio with95% CI were constructed and a p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result A total of 60 adult patients with dementia were enrolled. The mean (SD) age of dementia patients was 69.4 (1.56) years and 56% were male. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 70% and the mean serum vitamin D level was 23.94 (1.55) ng/ml. Amnestic variant AD was detected in 45% of the participants followed by vascular dementia (35%) and Parkinson disease dementia (10%). HIV associated dementia was diagnosed in 6% of the participants. Hypertension was the most prevalent (45%) comorbidity reported in our dementia cohort. Severe vitamin D deficiency (serum vitamin D level < 10 ng/ml) was negatively association with disease severity (p = 0.01) and increased age (p = 0.003). Conclusion Vitamin D deficiency was prevalent in Ethiopian dementia patients. There were strong associations between severe vitamin D deficiency and dementia severity and increment in age.

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, a shift from traditional in-person conferences to virtual and hybrid formats was welcomed for its accessible, cost-effective approach to sharing scientific knowledge and connecting people. Here, we discuss an effective hybrid format that combines in-person and online elements to foster inclusivity by providing a flexible, cost-effective alternative to in-person meetings.

Two of every three persons living with dementia reside in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs). The projected increase in global dementia rates is expected to affect LMICs disproportionately. However, the majority of global dementia care costs occur in high‐income countries (HICs), with dementia research predominantly focusing on HICs. This imbalance necessitates LMIC‐focused research to ensure that characterization of dementia accurately reflects the involvement and specificities of diverse populations. Development of effective preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches for dementia in LMICs requires targeted, personalized, and harmonized efforts. Our article represents timely discussions at the 2022 Symposium on Dementia and Brain Aging in LMICs that identified the foremost opportunities to advance dementia research, differential diagnosis, use of neuropsychometric tools, awareness, and treatment options. We highlight key topics discussed at the meeting and provide future recommendations to foster a more equitable landscape for dementia prevention, diagnosis, care, policy, and management in LMICs. Highlights Two‐thirds of persons with dementia live in LMICs, yet research and costs are skewed toward HICs. LMICs expect dementia prevalence to more than double, accompanied by socioeconomic disparities. The 2022 Symposium on Dementia in LMICs addressed advances in research, diagnosis, prevention, and policy. The Nairobi Declaration urges global action to enhance dementia outcomes in LMICs.

Background BPSD are common in persons living with dementia and are often associated with disease severity and caregivers’ distress. In Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries, they are often the symptom complex that compel family to seek medical help. However, the association of BPSD with dementia severity and specific cognitive domains is underexplored in African populations. This study aims to evaluate BPSD among indigenous Africans and the association with specific cognitive domains. Method This cross‐sectional study analyzes data collected from nine African countries (Nigeria, Benin, Ghana, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Mozambique) participating in the Recruitment and Retention for Alzheimer's Disease Diversity Cohorts in the Alzheimer's Disease Sequencing Project (READD‐ADSP) project, from June 2023 to December 2024. Data on neurocognitive factors were collected using the Uniform Data Set (UDS), Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI‐Q) for BPSD, and the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scale for dementia severity. Data was managed on REDCap and analysis was performed using STATA (v16). Descriptive statistics were employed for symptom prevalence, and Spearman's rank correlation was used to analyze the relationship between NPI‐Q and CDR scores. Association between cognitive domains and behavioral symptoms was examined using hierarchical linear model adjusting for covariates such as age, gender, education, and illness duration. Result A total of 641 Africans with dementia (61% female, mean age 76.7±10.1 years) were included. The mean (±SD) NPI and CDR scores were 4.91 (±6.25) and 1.84 (±1.25), respectively. The most prevalent BPSD symptoms were apathy (32%), agitation/aggression (28.7%), and depression (28.1%). Spearman's correlation revealed a weak but significant positive association between NPI‐Q severity scores and CDR scores (rho = 0.264, p < 0.001). Behavioral symptoms were significantly associated with dementia severity (β = 1.59, CI: 1.15–2.03) as well as specific cognitive domains, particularly memory (digit span backward: β = ‐0.38, CI: ‐0.64 to ‐0.13). However, the duration of illness was not a significant predictor of behavioral symptoms in this cohort. Conclusion The findings suggest that BPSD are both an indicator and consequence of dementia severity, particularly in memory function. This study posits the need for targeted management of BPSD and improvement in overall patient care in LMICs