SynthesisBMJ open2026
Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in South and Southeast Asia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiology and associated factors.
Synthesis in BMJ open, 2026. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Not yet cited in PubMed.
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The abstract states no effect estimate the extractor could read, or names no intervention and outcome on the map, so this paper lights no cell and moves no belief. It is still indexed, cited and linked below.
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12 authors.
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Abstract
objectivesAlzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRDs) are rising global public health challenges, disproportionately affecting ageing populations. Although higher prevalence estimates have been reported in high-income countries (HICs), the most rapid increase in dementia burden is projected to occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly in South and Southeast Asia. Genetic predisposition and non-modifiable risk factors interplay with vascular, lifestyle and environmental factors, shaping future disease burden. However, evidence from South and Southeast Asia remains fragmented, limiting targeted policy responses. This review systematically synthesises available evidence on prevalence and associated factors to inform prevention and care strategies.
designSystematic review and meta-analysis of AD/ADRDs prevalence and associated factors related studies from South and Southeast Asia. DATA SOURCES: Five electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, EMBASE, APA PsycNet and hand searching of reference lists up to 1 May 2025. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR SELECTING STUDIES: The designed study included observational studies, specifically cross-sectional, casecontrol and cohort designs that reported the epidemiological characteristics and associated factors of AD/ADRDs. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS: Study screening, data extraction and methodological assessments were conducted by two independent reviewers. Risk of bias was assessed using the modified Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (mNOS). A restricted maximum likelihood model was used to synthesise results, complemented by synthesis of associated risk factors. Between-study heterogeneity was assessed using I² statistic.
resultsA total of 31 studies were included, of which 13 were analysed to estimate pooled prevalence (N=56 340). The methodological quality was good (mean mNOS=7.1, SD 0.99). The pooled age of onset of AD was 70.7 (SD 5.5) years, with one-third (46.3%) of the men surviving for 5 years. The overall estimated prevalence of dementia was 3.0% (95% CI 2.0% to 5.0%,
conclusionsAD affects a substantial and growing proportion of populations in South and Southeast Asia, with marked heterogeneity across settings. Evidence of an upward trend over the time in LMICs poses significant challenges in the coming years. The rising prevalence, associated factors particularly in resource-limited contexts, underscores the need for early-screening in clinical practices and region-specific epidemiological research. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER: CRD 420251047105.
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