Ghanaian Research Uncovers Gender Differences in Dementia Risk: Study Calls for Gender-Sensitive Interventions
Precious Adade Duodu, a senior lecturer in Adult Nursing at the University of Huddersfield and an alumnus of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) School of Nursing and Midwifery, has presented groundbreaking research on gendered differences in dementia prevalence in Ghana. The findings were shared at a two-day workshop held at the Amono-Neizer Conference Centre, KNUST, on July 21–22, 2025.
Titled “Gendered Differences in the Prevalence and Associated Factors of Dementia in Ghana: A Cross-Sectional Survey,” the study represents one of the most comprehensive efforts yet to examine how gender influences dementia risk in the country, particularly in the Ashanti Region. The research highlights the urgent need for gender-sensitive health interventions in tackling the growing burden of dementia.
In his presentation, Duodu explained that dementia, a major non-communicable disease affecting over 57 million people worldwide, is poised to become an even greater public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa, where cases are projected to rise by 357% by 2050. Yet, despite this looming crisis, Ghana lacks sufficient data on how the disease affects different segments of its population, particularly in terms of gender.
The cross-sectional study surveyed 800 adults aged 45 and above using the standardized Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS) alongside socio-economic data. The overall prevalence of dementia among the sample was found to be 23.38%, with a higher proportion among females (24.56%) compared to males (21.31%).
The analysis revealed that younger age, higher education, and greater household wealth significantly reduced the risk of dementia; however, these protective factors varied by gender. While education and household wealth were negatively associated with dementia risk in men, age and education were the key protective factors in women.
“These findings underscore the importance of designing targeted interventions,” Duodou stated. “For men, we must focus on those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, while for women, special attention should be given to the elderly.”
He further stressed that existing policies, including the National Ageing Policy, are insufficient on their own and called on the Ghanaian government to develop robust, gender-responsive systems that address the unique needs of individuals at risk of dementia. “We need a national strategy that reflects the gendered nuances of dementia if we are to effectively manage and reduce its impact on our ageing population,” he said.
Duodu’s research adds to the growing body of literature urging policymakers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders to recognize the role of gender in public health planning. His work is expected to serve as a foundation for future studies and policies aimed at improving dementia diagnosis, prevention, and care across Ghana and beyond.
