Cognitive Disorders Awareness and Associated Risk Factors in Xizang Autonomous Region

Objective: Cognitive Disorders and the major subtype, Alzheimer's disease, severely impact cognitive health in the human brain. The Xizang Autonomous Region is located in a high-altitude area, where a previous epidemiological survey indicated a higher prevalence of Alzheimer's disease compared to plain areas. Early identification and timely medical consultation are crucial for early treatment and prevention of disease progression. This study aims to investigate the awareness of cognitive disorders and the associated risk factors among Xizang residents, providing a basis for targeted prevention and treatment efforts. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among residents who have lived in Xizang for at least six months (180 days), aged 18 years old and over, and free of dementia. After obtaining informed consent, demographic information and questions related to awareness of cognitive disorders and Alzheimer's disease were collected through an online questionnaire or assisted interview. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) or chi-square tests were used to compare the distribution characteristics of cognitive disorders awareness among three groups (unaware, partially aware, and aware). A cumulative logistic model was employed to analyze factors influencing cognitive disorders awareness, treating awareness as an ordinal variable (unaware, partially aware, aware, in ascending order). Further subgroup analysis was conducted among the general population (non-healthcare workers). Results: 313 individuals participated in the survey, 7.4% unaware, 75.7% partially aware, and 16.9% aware of cognitive disorders. Significant differences in cognitive disorders awareness characteristics were found among age, ethnic groups, education levels, occupations, witnesses of cognitive disorders patients, and medical consultation intention. The cumulative logistic multivariate regression model identified low education level, no witnesses of cognitive disorders patients, and non-healthcare occupation as significant factors associated with decreased awareness. Further subgroup analysis revealed that low education level and no witnesses of cognitive disorders patients remained significant for decreased awareness in the general population (non-healthcare workers). Conclusion: Awareness of cognitive disorders in Xizang needs to be improved. Improvement of the general education level, health education, and science popularization can help improve public awareness. Although healthcare workers have higher awareness than non-healthcare workers, their awareness still need to be improved as healthcare practitioners and disseminators of medical knowledge.