Prevalence and Gender-Based Risk Factors of Alzheimer’s Disease in District Nowshera, Pakistan: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Rabia Taj; Shahab ur Rehman; Fatima Jehan

doi:10.70749/ijbr.v2i1.782

Authors

Rabia Taj Department of Zoology, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, Peshawar, Pakistan.
Shahab ur Rehman College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, China
Fatima Jehan Department of Zoology, Shaheed Benazir Bhutto Women University, Peshawar, Pakistan.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70749/ijbr.v2i1.782

Keywords:

Alzheimer’s disease, Prevalence, Risk factors, Gender differences, Nowshera, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the leading cause of dementia worldwide. It primarily affects memory, cognition, and behavior, with increasing prevalence among aging populations. Limited data exist regarding its burden and risk factors in Pakistan. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and gender-based risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease in District Nowshera. Methods: A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Qazi Hussain Ahmed Medical Complex, Nowshera, from August to October 2022. A total of 80 clinically diagnosed Alzheimer’s patients aged 50 years and above were enrolled through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire focusing on demographic variables, symptoms, and risk factors. The data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel to calculate frequencies and percentages. Results: Among 80 participants, 61 (76.25%) were female and 19 (23.75%) were male, indicating a higher prevalence in women. The majority of patients were aged 60–65 years. Common symptoms included memory loss (80%), confusion (95%), and forgetfulness (96%). Major risk factors were depression (95%), diabetes (75%), low education (80%), and psychosocial stress (84%). Smoking was predominant among males (84%). Family history was reported in 68% of females and 89% of males. Conclusion: Alzheimer’s disease is increasingly prevalent among elderly individuals in Nowshera, with a higher burden in females. Depression, diabetes, smoking, and low education were significant risk factors. Early detection, mental health support, and public awareness are essential to reduce the disease burden in Pakistan.

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