Alzheimer's Risk Differs for South Asians

New research indicates that the factors increasing the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia may not be uniform across all populations. For South Asian Americans, the risk profile appears distinct, with growing evidence suggesting a different mix of genetic, lifestyle, and health-related factors.

Researchers highlight that South Asians remain underrepresented in Alzheimer's research, leading to significant gaps in understanding disease development within the community. Despite limited evidence, managing cardiometabolic health, particularly diabetes and hypertension, is proposed as the most effective way for South Asian Americans to reduce dementia risk. Addressing vision and hearing loss, maintaining physical and mental activity, and strong social connections are also vital.

Studies reviewed between 2000 and 2025 in India reveal that diabetes and metabolic disorders are especially important for South Asians, who often develop diabetes at younger ages and lower body weights. These vascular and metabolic factors may have a greater impact on dementia risk than previously understood. Additionally, limited education was estimated to account for a substantial portion of modifiable dementia risk in India.

Furthermore, widespread vision and hearing impairment were highlighted as significant risk factors. Untreated vision loss may contribute to approximately 14 percent of dementia cases in India, while hearing loss is linked to a 59 percent higher dementia risk. Genetic variants known to increase dementia risk in European ancestry appear to have a more limited impact on South Asians, underscoring the need for population-specific research.

The findings have informed the South Asian Middle Age Risk Tracking for Brain Health (SAMARTH) study at Rutgers, which aims to identify risk and protective factors specific to South Asian populations in the U.S. The goal is to develop more precise prevention and treatment strategies tailored to this community.