Prevalence and Factors Associated with Subjective Memory Complaint in a Semi-Rural Community in Chile

Abstract

Background: Subjective memory complaints (SMC) are commonly studied in older adults and have been identified as potentially prodromal to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Studies among younger adults from South America are lacking. Objective: To estimate the prevalence of SMC and the factors associated with it among Maule Cohort (MAUCO) participants. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional analysis to estimate the prevalence of SMC and investigated its associated factors from MAUCO baseline data (N = 6,687). Within groups defined by age (38–59, 60–74) and global cognition (Mini-Mental State Examination: ≥26, 25-22, ≤21), multinomial logistic regression models evaluated risk factors for SMC (Yes, Sometimes, No). Results: Overall, SMC prevalence was 16.4%; 15.9% (95% CI 14.9–16.9%) among younger and 17.6% (15.8–19.4%) among older participants. Female sex, comorbidities, and bad/fair self-reported health status (SRHS) were generally associated with higher odds of SMC. Conclusion: Overall prevalence of SMC was 16%. Different factors were associated with the odds of SMC depending on age and global cognitive status. Future SMC studies should include sex-specific assessments, evaluate SRHS as a moderator of SMC reporting, and the influence of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic on SMC reporting.