Racial Disparities Exist In Diagnosis & Drug Use For Dementia Symptoms

Compared to Black (58.6%) and Asian (54.5%) people, Hispanic (67.6%) and White (66%) people with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias were more likely to be diagnosed with symptoms like depression and agitation. Racial/ethnic differences in affective disorders were pronounced. About 56.8% of white people living with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (PLWD) were diagnosed, while Asians had the lowest rates (37.8%).

White and Hispanic people with these diagnoses were also most likely to be prescribed central nervous system (CNS) active drugs, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsant, although CNS drugs have been associated . . .