John-Paul Omuojine, MD
Nominated From: University of Michigan
Research Site: Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital
Research Area: Neurocognitive Disorders
Primary Mentor: Dr. Melissa Elafros
Research Project
Incidence and risk factors of dementia after delirium in hospitalized older Ghanaians
Delirium is a known risk factor for dementia, but little is known about the determinants of new-onset dementia after delirium, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) where a disproportionately higher growth in dementia burden is predicted. This study will evaluate the incidence of dementia six months after hospitalization and the prevalence of associated risk factors among older Ghanaians with hospital-associated delirium. Eighty-nine adults ≥ 60 years without prior cognitive impairment who present with delirium at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) will be recruited within 48 hours of admission and monitored until discharge. Post discharge follow ups will occur at six weeks, three months, and six months. At six months, participants will be assessed for new-onset dementia. This study will provide data regarding the burden of new-onset dementia associated with delirium in sub-Saharan Africa. It will also provide data necessary to inform a larger, future prospective study investigating the genetic, clinical, and demographic predictors of new-onset dementia after delirium.
Research Significance
The prevalence and cost of dementia is increasing with an ageing global population, and more so in LMIC. Delirium (or Acute confusional state), which is the most common complication of hospitalization in older adults, is now a known predictor of dementia, but there is limited data on who makes this progression from delirium to dementia, and why, especially in sSA.
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