The distribution and population burden of potentially modifiable dementia risk factors in Canada

The number of Canadians living with dementia is expected to increase dramatically over the next decades. The Public Health Agency of Canada has identified an evidence gap related to the distribution of dementia risk factors in Canada. The Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA) is an ideal data source for investigations into dementia risk factors in a Canadian context. We will build on previous research that has identified the 12 most important modifiable risk factors for dementia. We will examine the prevalence and distribution of these modifiable risk factors within CLSA participants and calculate to what degree they contribute to the overall burden of dementia in Canada. We will stratify our results across sex, age, and income groups. Our results will yield important evidence on risk factors for dementia in Canada and can contribute to efforts to improve dementia surveillance within the CLSA.