Population Surveillance of Dementia Mortality
Author Information
Author(s): Gillum Richard F., Yorrick Ralston Obisesan, Thomas O. Obisesan
Primary Institution: Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Howard University
Hypothesis
The rate of death with Alzheimer’s Disease or other dementia varies among states, within states and over time in the US.
Conclusion
There is marked geographic variation in rates of death with all dementia and Alzheimer’s disease among US states and counties over time.
Supporting Evidence
- In 2005–2006, there were 555,904 total deaths with any dementia type.
- Age-adjusted rates per 100,000 for all dementia varied from 458 in New York to 921 in Oregon.
- The US death rate for all dementia increased from 559 to 695 (24%) between 1999–2000 and 2005–2006.
- The death rate for Alzheimer’s disease doubled from 135 to 266 during the same period.
Takeaway
This study looked at how many people died from dementia in different parts of the US and found that some places have a lot more deaths than others.
Methodology
Data from the US multiple cause of death files for 2005–2006 and 1999–2000 were analyzed, focusing on deaths with Alzheimer's Disease and other dementias.
Potential Biases
Diagnostic inaccuracy may lead to under-ascertainment of specific conditions at death.
Limitations
Statistical artifacts due to patterns of diagnostic practice and completion of death certificates cannot be excluded as contributors to geographic and temporal variation.
Participant Demographics
Persons aged 65 years and over.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website