STATUS OF RISK-FACTORS FOR DEMENTIA ASSOCIATED WITH STROKE

Background Cognitive impairment associated with vascular disease may b e the only preventable form of dementia of late life. Identification o f risk factors for dementia associated with stroke may be a prelude to improved intervention. Summary of Review I reviewed putative risk fac tors for dementia associated with stroke. These included demographic, atherogenic, stroke-related, and genetic factors. Key studies from the English literature were reviewed and graded according to quality of e vidence ratings (classes I, II, and III). Although many of the cardiov ascular disease risk factors are logical antecedents of dementia assoc iated with stroke, age was the only factor that could be considered a well-documented risk factor. Conclusions We should continue to support efforts directed at primary stroke prevention and the brain-at-risk a nd predementia stages. Additional rigorous epidemiological study is ne eded to clarify risk factors for dementia associated with stroke.