Dementia literacy and awareness of risk reduction: a systematic review of South Asian and Southeast Asian regions

Objectives: Dementia is a growing public health concern in South and Southeast Asia, yet the region's dementia literacy remains poorly understood. This review aimed to synthesise existing research on dementia literacy among South and Southeast Asian populations and diasporas, identifying barriers to literacy and risk reduction. 

Methods: Six databases (MEDLINE, PubMED, PsycINFO, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane, ProQuest and Google Scholar) were searched from inception to 2024, with 73 articles from 11 countries identified for inclusion, data extraction and quality appraisal using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. 

Results: Most studies demonstrated low levels of general dementia literacy (78%) and awareness of dementia risk factors (32%). There was a prevalent belief that dementia is a normal process of ageing. Lower dementia literacy was reported for individuals from Vietnam compared to individuals from India and Pakistan. Stigma, language barriers, lack of culturally appropriate resources and religious beliefs were common factors hindering dementia awareness and risk reduction.

Conclusions: Targeted interventions are necessary to increase dementia literacy in South and Southeast Asian populations, where awareness is poor and misconceptions continue.