Dementia Among Asians: What’s Behind the Growing Cases?

February 11, 2025

Dementia is a significant concern in Asia, with the highest number of cases reported in the region. Asia is currently reporting the highest number of dementia cases, with 22.9 million individuals affected, which is more than double the number reported in Europe at 10.5 million. ¹

In 2015, approximately 23 million people in the Asia-Pacific region were estimated to have dementia.²The estimated numbers of people with dementia by region are as follows: South Asia (6.96 million), Southeast Asia (3.55 million), and Asia (24.28 million).³Among Asian regions, East Asia has the highest estimated number of persons with Aβ-positive AD dementia (6.6 million), followed by South Asia (3.9 million).⁴

What is Aβ-positive AD dementia
Aβ-positive AD dementia refers to Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia, defined by the presence of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques in the brain.

Recent studies on dementia causes, factors in Asia

Metabolic dysfunction plays a critical role in dementia risk.⁵Research indicates that Korean Americans may have a higher risk for Alzheimer’s due to lifestyle factors like alcohol consumption.⁶ Moreover, hypertension, dyslipidemia, obesity, and diabetes are more prevalent in minority ethnic groups compared to White people, with hypertension having a 1.57 times greater impact on dementia risk in South Asian people.⁷

The impact of hypertension, obesity, diabetes, low HDL, and sleep disorders on dementia risk was increased in South Asian people compared to White people.⁸ Furthermore, one in three Asian patients has the tau protein in the brain, a known risk factor for dementia.⁹

On the same note, it has been found that some Asian urban areas show higher prevalence rates of dementia (14.6%) and mild cognitive impairment (35.3%) compared to Europe. ¹⁰There is a high risk of under detection of cognitive impairment, delayed diagnosis, and suboptimal management of dementia among Asian Americans. ¹¹

Likewise, studies suggest a greater vascular contribution to dementia among South Asian adults, complicated by varying genetic risks.¹²

Main risk factors for dementia in Southeast Asia

The main risk factors for dementia vary across different regions in Asia, influenced by factors such as lifestyle, genetics, and access to healthcare. Several studies indicate a rising trend of dementia and cognitive impairment in Asia, aligning with patterns observed in Western countries. ¹³

In Southeast Asia, dementia of the Alzheimer’s type is the most common diagnosis, followed by vascular dementia and frontotemporal dementia. A study in Singapore found that younger patients with dementia and higher lifespan education, as well as older patients with moderate-to-severe cerebrovascular disease, experience a steeper decline in cognition.¹⁴

An Asian diet for healthy brain

Lifestyle significantly impacts dementia rates among Asian populations, with factors like diet, physical activity, social engagement, and smoking playing significant roles.

Asians love food. Asian cuisine offers a wide range of flavors and ingredients, with many dishes rich in vegetables, fish, and spices known for their health benefits. Traditional meals like steamed fish, tofu, and stir-fried greens provide essential nutrients that support brain health.

However, some recipes can be high in refined carbs, sodium, and unhealthy fats, such as deep-fried snacks and heavily processed foods. To maintain a healthy brain, Asians should be mindful of their diet, choosing nutrient-dense options while limiting excessive salt, sugar, and unhealthy oils.

Traditional Asian diets, characterized by high consumption of fruits, vegetables, and fish, along with herbs and spices like turmeric, are linked to a lower risk of dementia.¹⁵

Healthy diets such as the Mediterranean, DASH, and MIND diets are considered more effective in preventing dementia compared to the traditional “Western diet,” which is high in red meat and fats, and low in vegetables and fish. ¹⁶

Related: DASH Diet For Hypertension

A pro-oxidant, pro-inflammatory state is characteristic of aging and age-related degenerative diseases, so foods with anti-inflammatory effects or antioxidants may be effective in preventing dementia.¹⁷

References
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Europe%20%2810.5&text=%2822.9%20million%29%2C%20which%20is,Europe%20%2810.5&text=than%20double
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