Hidden Brain Condition Linked to Higher Dementia Risk in Older Adults

Researchers have identified a connection between cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) and an increased likelihood of developing dementia among older adults, based on a large-scale study in the United States.

CAA is characterized by the buildup of amyloid proteins in the brain’s blood vessels, which can weaken these vessels over time. The study examined Medicare beneficiaries aged 65 and older, monitoring new diagnoses of dementia over a six-year period.

Data from the study indicated that individuals diagnosed with CAA experienced a higher rate of dementia compared to those without the condition. Within five years, approximately 42% of participants with CAA developed dementia, while the rate was about 10% for those without CAA.

Researchers also analyzed the impact of stroke history on dementia risk. Individuals with both CAA and a history of stroke were about 4.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with dementia at any point compared to those without either condition. Those with CAA but no stroke history were about 4.3 times more likely to receive a dementia diagnosis than those without CAA or stroke.

What the numbers show

• Nearly 2 million adults aged 65+ participated in the study
• 42% of CAA patients developed dementia within five years
• Individuals with CAA and stroke were 4.5 times more likely to be diagnosed with dementia

The study also found that individuals who had experienced a stroke but did not have CAA were about 2.4 times more likely to develop dementia compared to those with neither condition. These findings highlight differences in dementia risk based on the presence or absence of CAA and stroke.

Researchers stated that the increased risk of dementia associated with CAA was evident even in individuals who had not experienced a stroke. This suggests that CAA itself is a substantial factor in dementia risk, regardless of stroke history.

The research team recommended that individuals diagnosed with CAA undergo regular cognitive assessments. Proactive screening may help address modifiable risk factors and could contribute to slowing cognitive decline in this population.

The findings were based on data collected from 2016 to 2022, providing insight into dementia risk among older adults with CAA. The study’s results may inform future approaches to monitoring and managing cognitive health in this group.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.