Dementia risk in US varies widely by region, study finds

The risk of developing dementia in the United States significantly varies depending on where people live, a new large-scale study has found.

Published in the journal JAMA Neurology, the research analyzed health records from more than 1.2 million U.S. veterans.

Even after adjusting for age, race, and cardiovascular conditions, researchers discovered that geography plays a key role in dementia risk.

Southeast sees the highest dementia rates

According to the study, the highest rates of dementia were observed in the Southeastern U.S., with rates 25% higher than those in the Mid-Atlantic, which had the lowest incidence. Other regions also showed elevated risk levels:

• Northwest: 23% higher
• South: 18% higher
• Southwest (including California): 13% higher
• Northeast (including New York): 7% higher

Single elderly man looking through window glass standing at home. (Adobe Stock Photo)

Rural access, regional factors may contribute

The researchers highlighted that access to healthcare in rural areas may be a contributing factor, as those regions often face challenges in obtaining timely medical treatment.

“These results underscore the influence of regionally patterned risk factors or diagnostic practices, highlighting the importance of tailored health care strategies, public health initiatives, and policy reforms,” the study stated.

July 02, 2025 06:05 PM GMT+03:00