Global patterns linking total meat supply to dementia incidence: a population-based ecological study

Dementia cases are projected to triple globally by 2050, largely driven by an aging population. While aging remains the primary risk factor, emerging evidence suggests that diet, including total meat supply, may influence dementia risk. This study investigates the relationship between total meat supply (red and white meat) and dementia incidence using data from 204 countries. Bivariate correlations revealed a significant positive association between total meat supply and dementia incidence globally (r = 0.59, p < 0.001), with a stronger effect observed in low- and middle-income countries (z = 3.92, p < 0.001). Partial correlation analyses and multiple regression models, controlling for aging, economic status, genetic predisposition, and urbanization, confirmed that meat supply remained a significant predictor of dementia (Beta = 0.20, p < 0.001). Aging showed the strongest influence (Beta = 0.79, p < 0.001), underscoring its dominant role. Regional analyses suggested socio-economic disparities, dietary habits, and limited access to diverse nutrition as factors amplifying the association in developing regions. These findings identify total meat supply as a modifiable dietary factor contributing to dementia risk, particularly in resource-constrained settings. Implementing tailored dietary interventions may help reduce dementia incidence globally, especially in vulnerable populations.