Prevalence and factors associated with dementia in Lesotho: A cross-sectional, population-based study

INTRODUCTION: Limited research has examined dementia prevalence and associated factors in Lesotho. This study investigates dementia prevalence and the associated factors in Lesotho. METHODS: A survey in Lesotho included 1738 participants screened for dementia and potential associated factors with a focus on modifiable factors. Associations were evaluated using logistic regression models. RESULTS: The median age was 66 years, with 54.83% women. The prevalence of dementia was 4.89%. Those with depressive symptoms (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 3.97, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.39-11.30), age >= 75 (aOR: 2.68, 95% CI: 1.42-5.04), and underweight (aOR 2.30, 95% CI: 1.23-4.29) had increased odds of dementia. Those with moderate (aOR: 0.32, 95% CI: 0.17-0.58) to high (aOR: 0.35, 95% CI: 0.16-0.77) physical activity and obesity (aOR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.11-0.80) presented lower odds for dementia. DISCUSSION: This study provides a contemporary estimate of dementia prevalence in Lesotho, highlighting an association with modifiable factors.