Comprehensive Summary
This study uses machine learning to see how social determinants of health affect mild cognitive impairment and dementia across many racial and ethnic groups. Data was collected from the All of Us Research program, where results from 83180 adults ages 50+ were analyzed. ML models were used to identify which SDOH factors predicted MCI and dementia progression the best. Results showed that MCI rates were similar across all groups but the progression to dementia was different. The authors found that in Hispanic groups, social support was associated with a better prognosis, in black communities it was spiritual experience, and in white communities, it was stress. The paper argues that prevention methods for MCI and dementia should be culturally tailored since each group has different risk factors.
Outcomes and Implications
Dementia risk is rising globally, and understanding how stress, discrimination, and other SOH affect cognitive decline is important. The findings can guide clinicians in providing specific interventions for cultural communities in order to delay and prevent dementia. The study shows how with further validation, ML based SDOH risk tools can be implemented in a clinical setting in order to improve the outcomes for patients.