Birth rate as a determinant of dementia incidence: a comprehensive global analysis

Background: The role of parity in predicting dementia risk in women is debated. This study examines how birth rate affects global dementia incidence. Methods: Country-specific data on birth rate and dementia incidence rate were analyzed using bivariate analysis, partial correlation, and multiple linear regression. Confounding factors such as aging, affluence, genetic predisposition (Ibs), and urbanization were considered. Results: Pearson's r and nonparametric analyzes showed a significant inverse correlation between birth rate and dementia incidence. This relationship remained significant after controlling for aging, affluence, Ibs, and urbanization. Multiple linear regression identified birth rate as a significant predictor of dementia incidence, and as the strongest predictor. Affluence and urbanization were not significant predictors. The correlation was stronger in developing countries. Conclusions: Lower birth rate is an independent risk factor for dementia, particularly in developed countries. These findings highlight the importance of considering birth rate in dementia studies.