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Stites SD, Midgett S, Largent EA, Harkins K, Schumann R, Sankar P, Krieger A. A survey study of Alzheimer's stigma among Black adults: intersectionality of Black identity and biomarker diagnosis. ETHNICITY & HEALTH 2024:1-17. [PMID: 39079935 DOI: 10.1080/13557858.2024.2385110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We urgently need to understand Alzheimer's disease (AD) stigma among Black adults. Black communities bear a disproportionate burden of AD, and recent advances in early diagnosis using AD biomarkers may affect stigma associated with AD. The goal of our study is to characterize AD stigma within our cohort of self-identified Black participants and test how AD biomarker test results may affect this stigma. DESIGN We surveyed a sample of 1,150 self-identified Black adults who were randomized to read a vignette describing a fictional person, who was described as either having a positive or negative biomarker test result. After reading the vignette, participants completed the modified Family Stigma in Alzheimer's Disease Scale (FS-ADS). We compared FS-ADS scores between groups defined by age, gender, and United States Census region. We examined interactions between these groupings and AD biomarker test result. RESULTS Participants over age 65 had lower scores (lower stigma) on all 7 FS-ADS domains compared to those under 65: structural discrimination, negative severity attributions, negative aesthetic attributions, antipathy, support, pity, and social distance. In the biomarker positive condition, worries about structural discrimination were greater than in the biomarker negative condition and statistically similar in the two age groups (DOR, 0.39 [95%CI, 0.22-0.69]). This pattern of results was similar for negative symptom attributions (DOR, 0.51 [95%CI, 0.28-0.90]). CONCLUSION While older adults reported less AD stigma than younger adults, AD biomarker testing caused similarly high concerns about structural discrimination and negative severity attributions. Thus, use of AD biomarker diagnosis may increase AD stigma and exacerbate healthcare disparities known to effect AD diagnosis in some Black adults. Advances in AD diagnosis may interact with social and structural factors to differentially affect groups of Black adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shana D Stites
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Sharnita Midgett
- Division of Geriatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Emily A Largent
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kristin Harkins
- Division of Geriatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Rosalie Schumann
- Department of Psychiatry, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Pamela Sankar
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Abba Krieger
- Department of Statistics, Wharton School of Business, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Schaeffer E, Yilmaz R, St Louis EK, Noyce AJ. Ethical Considerations for Identifying Individuals in the Prodromal/Early Phase of Parkinson's Disease: A Narrative Review. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2024:JPD230428. [PMID: 38995800 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-230428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
The ability to identify individuals in the prodromal phase of Parkinson's disease has improved in recent years, raising the question of whether and how those affected should be informed about the risk of future disease. Several studies investigated prognostic counselling for individuals with isolated REM sleep behavior disorder and have shown that most patients want to receive information about prognosis, but autonomy and individual preferences must be respected. However, there are still many unanswered questions about risk disclosure or early diagnosis of PD, including the impact on personal circumstances, cultural preferences and specific challenges associated with different profiles of prodromal symptoms, genetic testing or biomarker assessments. This narrative review aims to summarize the current literature on prognostic counselling and risk disclosure in PD, as well as highlight future perspectives that may emerge with the development of new biomarkers and their anticipated impact on the definition of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Schaeffer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel and Kiel University, Kiel, Germany
| | - Rezzak Yilmaz
- Department of Neurology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
- Ankara University Brain Research Center, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Erik K St Louis
- Mayo Center for Sleep Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
- Mayo Clinic Health System Southwest Wisconsin, La Crosse, WI, USA
| | - Alastair J Noyce
- Centre for Preventive Neurology, Wolfson Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Stites SD, Largent EA, Schumann R, Harkins K, Sankar P, Krieger A. How reactions to a brain scan result differ for adults based on self-identified Black and White race. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:1527-1537. [PMID: 38029367 PMCID: PMC10984417 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13558] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION How do reactions to a brain scan result differ between Black and White adults? The answer may inform efforts to reduce disparities in Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnosis and treatment. METHODS Self-identified Black (n = 1055) and White (n = 1451) adults were randomized to a vignette of a fictional patient at a memory center who was told a brain scan result. Measures of stigma and diagnosis confidence were compared between-groups. RESULTS Black participants reported more stigma than White participants on four of seven domains in reaction to the patient at a memory center visit. Black participants' confidence in an AD diagnosis informed by a brain scan and other assessments was 72.2 points (95% confidence interval [CI] 70.4 to 73.5), which was lower than the respective rating for White participants [78.1 points (95%CI 77.0 to 79.3)]. DISCUSSION Equitable access to early AD diagnosis will require public outreach and education that address AD stigma associated with a memory center visit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shana D. Stites
- Department of PsychiatryPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Emily A. Largent
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health PolicyPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Rosalie Schumann
- Department of PsychiatryPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Kristin Harkins
- Division of GeriatricsPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Pamela Sankar
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health PolicyPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Abba Krieger
- Department of StatisticsWharton School of BusinessUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
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Warren A. The relationship between perceived stigma and perceived stress in cognitive decline: a survey of persons with mild cognitive impairment and their caregivers. Front Psychol 2023; 14:1293284. [PMID: 38144994 PMCID: PMC10740212 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1293284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction While Alzheimer's disease and other causes of dementia have rapidly become a global health crisis with growing incidence that is unabated, the incidence of Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) far exceeds that of Alzheimer's disease. Persons with MCI demonstrate some level of cognitive impairment, but daily functions remain intact and there is no certainty that they will develop dementia. Yet, the possibility conjures a considerable amount of fear and anxiety, further fueled by a vast array of misconceptions and stigma. The pervasive nature of this stigma permeates society and culture at many levels. Persons with MCI who are at higher risk for development of dementia may be especially vulnerable to fear and stigma associated with the diagnosis. Based on this premise, the primary aim of this study was to examine the relationship between perceived stigma and perceived stress in persons with MCI and their care partners, including the relationship between income and the study variables. The secondary aim was to examine the effect of a combined cognitive rehabilitation and wellness program on these perceptions. Methods Thirty participants were recruited from Mayo Clinic's Health Action to Benefit Independence and Thinking (HABIT) program. MCI (n = 15) and care partner (n = 15) participants completed the Stigma Impact Scale (SIS) and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) before and after the HABIT program. Results Average SIS and PSS scores decreased in the MCI, care partner, and combined groups, both pre- and post-HABIT. Linear regression was used to assess the relationship between perceived stigma and stress, controlling for income. A significant relationship was found between perceived stigma and perceived stress both pre and post-HABIT. Discussion The results suggest a relationship exists between perceived stigma and perceived stress in persons with MCI and their care partners, and an educational program such as HABIT may strengthen this relationship by informing participants of potential challenges that occur in cognitive decline. Understanding these relationships may provide an opportunity to provide tools for this vulnerable population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Warren
- The Department of Clinical Research and Leadership, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
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Warren A. Can a translational science approach change the dementia narrative in medical education? FRONTIERS IN DEMENTIA 2023; 2:1288817. [PMID: 39081977 PMCID: PMC11285690 DOI: 10.3389/frdem.2023.1288817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Alison Warren
- The Department of Clinical Research and Leadership, George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, DC, United States
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Hansra GK, Lim H, Cheong CY, Yap P. Knowledge and Attitudes towards Dementia among the General Public in Singapore: A Comparative Analysis. Dement Geriatr Cogn Disord 2023; 52:214-221. [PMID: 37080177 DOI: 10.1159/000530271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION This paper provides a summary of findings on the public's knowledge and attitudes towards dementia. We aim to investigate if the attitudes of Singaporeans towards dementia have changed over the years by adopting a questionnaire used in a similar study in 2012. METHODS A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted through the dissemination of an existing, online questionnaire to participants above 16 years of age. Out of 1,500 subjects, results from 1,373 participants were analysed. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse and compare results from the 2012 study while a latent class analysis was performed to understand the categories of study participants based on varying levels of attitudes, knowledge and stigma. RESULTS The mean age of study participants was 43.8 (SD = 15.7). Majority of the participants were females (76.5%), between 51 and 60 years of age (29.6%) and belonged to the Chinese ethnic group (77.8%). Results demonstrated that there were significant differences in attitudes towards dementia between 2012 and 2021. There was a 70.2% improvement in stigma-associated attitudes and an increase in correct responses to 4 out of 5 questions in the knowledge section. CONCLUSION Findings of this study suggest that the general public has a better knowledge and more positive attitude towards dementia. This could have been attributed to higher literacy levels of the current study population and effectiveness of established outreach initiatives in Singapore. However, further research with a more balanced representation of ethnic and cultural groups would offer more comprehensive insights into dementia health literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurpreet Kaur Hansra
- School of Health Sciences, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore, Singapore
- Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hazel Lim
- School of Health Sciences, Ngee Ann Polytechnic, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chin Yee Cheong
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Philip Yap
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
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Chen YJ, Su JA, Chen JS, Liu CH, Griffiths MD, Tsai HC, Chang CC, Lin CY. Examining the association between neuropsychiatric symptoms among people with dementia and caregiver mental health: are caregiver burden and affiliate stigma mediators? BMC Geriatr 2023; 23:27. [PMID: 36646996 PMCID: PMC9841634 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-023-03735-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropsychiatric disturbances are common manifestations of dementia disorders and are associated with caregiver burden and affiliate stigma. The present study investigated affiliate stigma and caregiver burden as mediators for the association between neuropsychiatric symptoms of people with dementia (PWD) and caregiver mental health such as depression and anxiety. METHODS A cross-sectional survey study was carried out with 261 dyads of PWD and informal caregivers from the outpatient department of a general hospital in Taiwan. The survey included the Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI), the Affiliate Stigma Scale (ASS), the Taiwanese Depression Questionnaire (TPQ), and the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI). Mediation models were tested using the Hayes' PROCESS macro (Model 4 for parallel mediation model; Model 6 for sequentially mediation model). RESULTS Caregiver burden, affiliate stigma, caregiver depression, and caregiver anxiety were significantly associated with neuropsychiatric symptoms. After controlling for several potentially confounding variables, it was found that PWD's neuropsychiatric symptoms, caregiver burden and affiliate stigma significantly explained 52.34% of the variance in caregiver depression and 37.72% of the variance in caregiver anxiety. The parallel mediation model indicated a significantly indirect path from PWD's neuropsychiatric symptoms to caregiver mental health through caregiver burden and affiliate stigma, while the direct effect was not significant. Moreover, there was a directional association between caregiver burden and affiliate stigma in the sequential mediation model. CONCLUSIONS These findings show that it is imperative to improve caregivers' perception of those with dementia to reduce internalized stigma and to improve caregivers' mental health. Implementation of affiliate stigma assessment in clinical practice would allow distinctions to be made between the impact of affiliate stigma and the consequences of caregiver burden to help inform appropriate intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Jung Chen
- grid.64523.360000 0004 0532 3255Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jian-An Su
- grid.454212.40000 0004 1756 1410Department of Psychiatry, Chang Gung Medical Foundation, Chiayi Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chiayi, Taiwan ,grid.145695.a0000 0004 1798 0922School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan, Taiwan ,grid.418428.3Department of Nursing, Chang Gung Institute of Technology, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Jung-Sheng Chen
- grid.411447.30000 0004 0637 1806Department of Medical Research, E-Da Hospital, I-Shou University, Kaohsiung, 82445 Taiwan
| | - Chieh-hsiu Liu
- grid.416911.a0000 0004 0639 1727Department of Family Medicine, Taoyuan General Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Mark D. Griffiths
- grid.12361.370000 0001 0727 0669International Gaming Research Unit, Psychology Department, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Hsin-Chi Tsai
- grid.411824.a0000 0004 0622 7222Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Tzu Chi University, Hualien, Taiwan ,grid.414692.c0000 0004 0572 899XDepartment of Psychiatry, Tzu-Chi General Hospital, Hualien, Taiwan
| | - Chih-Cheng Chang
- grid.413876.f0000 0004 0572 9255Department of Psychiatry, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan ,grid.411209.f0000 0004 0616 5076Department of Health Psychology, Chang Jung Christian University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ying Lin
- grid.64523.360000 0004 0532 3255Institute of Allied Health Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan ,grid.412040.30000 0004 0639 0054Biostatistics Consulting Center, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan ,grid.64523.360000 0004 0532 3255Department of Occupational Therapy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan ,grid.412040.30000 0004 0639 0054Department of Public Health, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Stites SD, Cao H, James R, Harkins K, Coykendall C, Flatt JD. A systematic review of measures of gender and biological sex: Exploring candidates for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) research. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2023; 15:e12359. [PMID: 36845632 PMCID: PMC9943901 DOI: 10.1002/dad2.12359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Background Gender and biological sex are social and structural determinants of health and umbrella concepts encompassing many distinct attributes. This systematic review summarizes measures of gender and biological sex published in the biomedical literature. The goal was to identify measures that may be useful to researchers studying Alzheimer's disease and Alzheimer's disease related dementias (AD/ADRD). Methods A search of PubMed, Embase, and PsycINFO (ProQuest platform) databases from 2000 to 2021 identified 1454 articles, which were then screened by five independent reviewers. Measures of gender and biological sex are summarized according to theoretical commitments and psychometric properties. Results Twenty-nine measures were identified that assessed gender-related constructs, and 4 were identified that assessed biological factors. Self-report instruments characterized aspects of gender, such as gender stereotypes, norms, and ideologies. One measure was developed with a focus on older adults (65+ years). Discussion We offer recommendations to guide measurement of gender in AD/ADRD research, including how the use of specific existing measures may help advance AD/ADRD research. The lack of gender measures for older adults limits AD/ADRD research. New measures may be needed to address lifespan and generational differences in gender factors. Highlights A review of articles identifies 29 measures of gender in biomedical research.Gender is captured using multidimensional, self-reported concepts.One measure was developed with a focus on older adults (65+).
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Affiliation(s)
- Shana D. Stites
- Department of PsychiatryPerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Hannah Cao
- School of Social Policy and PracticeUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Richard James
- University of Pennsylvania LibrariesPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Kristin Harkins
- Division of Geriatric MedicineDepartment of MedicinePerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Cameron Coykendall
- Division of Geriatric MedicineDepartment of MedicinePerelman School of MedicineUniversity of PennsylvaniaPhiladelphiaPennsylvaniaUSA
| | - Jason D. Flatt
- Department of Social and Behavioral HealthSchool of Public HealthUniversity of NevadaLas VegasNevadaUSA
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Vitou V, Gély-Nargeot MC, Jeandel C, Bayard S. The influence of Alzheimer's disease stigma on pain assessment in older persons. DEMENTIA 2022; 21:2418-2441. [PMID: 35976758 DOI: 10.1177/14713012221117907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Pain of nursing homes residents with Alzheimer's disease remains under detected compared to their cognitively intact counterparts. Communication difficulties may partly explain this poor quality of care but the influence of stigmatization on pain assessment has never been explored. RESEARCH QUESTION The objective of this research was to analyze whether a diagnosis label of Alzheimer's disease or the stage of the disease may bias pain assessment scores and empathic reactions of health care staff in nursing homes. METHODS Two studies were conducted based on a similar experimental between-subjects design with a video showing an older adult woman experiencing undefined pain. Different labels and vignettes were manipulated to characterize the subject of the video. In the first study, 84 certified nursing assistants were asked to watch the video and then to assess the pain intensity and their empathic reaction. Participants were randomized in two conditions that varied the disease label (Alzheimer's disease vs no diagnosis). In the second study, 67 certified nursing assistants were enrolled who did not participate in the first study. They watched the same video as in the first study and assessed the pain intensity and their empathic reaction. They were randomized in two conditions that varied the stage of the Alzheimer's disease (mild stage vs severe stage). RESULTS Alzheimer's disease label had no influence on assessment scores. In contrast, the stage of the disease had a significant effect on the health care staff assessments with severe stage associated with lower pain intensity scores and empathic reactions. CONCLUSION These results confirm that the Alzheimer's disease stigma is a real phenomenon that tends to be mainly elicited by the symptoms of the acute phase of the disease. These findings are crucial to better understand the stigma related to Alzheimer's disease and to enhance the pain management of this frail population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Vitou
- 27038EPSYLON, EA4556, Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, F34000, Montpellier, France.,Fondation Partage et Vie, Montrouge, France
| | | | - Claude Jeandel
- Fondation Partage et Vie, Montrouge, France.,Département de Gériatrie, Université De Montpellier, 26905CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Sophie Bayard
- 27038EPSYLON, EA4556, Univ Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, F34000, Montpellier, France
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Kim S, Anstey KJ, Mortby ME. Who displays dementia-related stigma and what does the general public know about dementia? Findings from a nationally representative survey. Aging Ment Health 2022:1-9. [PMID: 35187991 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2022.2040428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify the characteristics of those who tend to hold stigmatising beliefs and behaviours towards people living with dementia to inform dementia education and the targeting of interventions to reduce dementia-related stigma. UNLABELLED A nationally representative telephone survey of 1000 Australians aged 18-93 years was conducted to assess general knowledge of dementia and dementia-related stigma. A single open-ended question was used to assess participants' general knowledge of dementia. Modified items from the Lay Public Dimension of the Family Stigma in Alzheimer's Disease Scale were used to assess dementia-related stigma. UNLABELLED Only 26% of participants demonstrated good dementia knowledge while almost half of the participants had a mixed understanding of dementia. Dementia-related negative cognitive attributions were found to be higher in (1) the older age cohorts, (2) amongst individuals who know someone with dementia, (3) speak a language other than English at home, and (4) have a better understanding of dementia. Older age cohorts, men, those who do not know someone with dementia, and those who speak a non-English language at home also reported significantly higher discriminatory behavioural reactions compared to the younger age cohorts, females, those who know someone with dementia, and those who speak English only at home. UNLABELLED This study identifies a need for improved public education about dementia. A structured approach to the development of strategies that is specifically tailored to different age, gender and cultural groups may provide a beneficial approach to help improve dementia knowledge and reduce dementia-related stigma in the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarang Kim
- Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia.,Centre for Research on Ageing, Health & Wellbeing, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Kaarin J Anstey
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
| | - Moyra E Mortby
- School of Psychology, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia.,Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, Australia
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van der Schaar J, Visser LNC, Bouwman FH, Ket JCF, Scheltens P, Bredenoord AL, van der Flier WM. Considerations regarding a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease before dementia: a systematic review. Alzheimers Res Ther 2022; 14:31. [PMID: 35144684 PMCID: PMC8829985 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-022-00971-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The NIA-AA research framework proposes a purely biological definition of Alzheimer's disease (AD). This implies that AD can be diagnosed based on biomarker abnormalities, irrespective of clinical manifestation. While this brings opportunities, it also raises challenges. We aimed to provide an overview of considerations regarding the disclosure of AD pathology before the onset of dementia. METHODS A systematic literature review was conducted and reported according to PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed, Embase, APA PsycINFO, and Web of Science Core Collection (on 10 December 2020) for references on conveying AD biomarker results to individuals without dementia. Our query combined variations on the terms Alzheimer's disease, disclosure, or diagnosis, preclinical or prodromal, and biomarkers. Two reviewers independently screened the resulting 6860 titles and abstracts for eligibility and examined 162 full-text records for relevance. We included theoretical articles in English, on communicating amyloid and/or tau results to individuals with mild cognitive impairment, subjective cognitive decline, or normal cognition. MAXQDA-software was used for inductive data analysis. RESULTS We included 27 publications. From these, we extracted 26 unique considerations, which we grouped according to their primary relevance to a clinical, personal, or societal context. Clinical considerations included (lack of) validity, utility, and disclosure protocols. Personal considerations covered psychological and behavioral implications, as well as the right to (not) know. Finally, societal considerations comprised the risk of misconception, stigmatization, and discrimination. Overall, views were heterogeneous and often contradictory, with emphasis on harmful effects. CONCLUSIONS We found 26 diverse and opposing considerations, related to a clinical, personal, or societal context, which are relevant to diagnosing AD before dementia. The theoretical literature tended to focus on adverse impact and rely on common morality, while the motivation for and implications of biomarker testing are deeply personal. Our findings provide a starting point for clinicians to discuss biomarker-based diagnosis with their patients, which will become even more relevant in light of the conditional approval of a first disease-modifying drug for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jetske van der Schaar
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Leonie N C Visser
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Center for Alzheimer Research, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Femke H Bouwman
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Philip Scheltens
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Annelien L Bredenoord
- Erasmus School of Philosophy, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wiesje M van der Flier
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081, HZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology & Data Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Kim S, Eccleston C, Klekociuk S, Cook PS, Doherty K. Development and psychometric evaluation of the Dementia Public Stigma Scale. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2022; 37. [PMID: 34997624 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Dementia is a stigmatised condition and dementia-related stigma is associated with low self-esteem, poor psychological wellbeing, social isolation and poor quality of life in people living with dementia and their families. There is, however, a lack of valid measures that accurately quantify dementia-related stigma in the general public. This study reports the initial psychometric evaluation of a new tool designed to measure dementia-related public stigma amongst community dwelling adults. METHODS A sample of 3250 individuals aged 18 and over completed an online survey on their beliefs and feelings regarding dementia and people living with dementia, and their behavioural intentions towards people living with dementia. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using Maximum Likelihood with oblique rotation was performed to extract factors. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was used to confirm the factor structure using goodness-of-fit index (GFI), the comparative fit index (CFI), and the root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) to evaluate the model fit. Internal consistency was measured for the final scale version. RESULTS EFA resulted in a 16-item, 5-factor model (Fear and discomfort, Negative perceptions, Positive perceptions, Burden, and Exclusion) that explained 50.43% of the total variance. The CFA-estimated model demonstrated a good fit; all fit indices were larger than 0.95 (GFI = 0.967, CFI = 0.959) and smaller than 0.05 (RMSEA = 0.048). The final scale showed moderate to high reliability scores ranging from α = 0.738 to 0.805. CONCLUSIONS The Dementia Public Stigma Scale is a tool with reliability, and some demonstrated validity. This scale can be used to measure the public stigma of dementia amongst adults and may be used in the development and evaluation of interventions aimed at dementia-related stigma reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarang Kim
- Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Claire Eccleston
- Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Shannon Klekociuk
- Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Peta S Cook
- Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Kathleen Doherty
- Wicking Dementia Research & Education Centre, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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Jutten RJ, Thompson L, Sikkes SA, Maruff P, Molinuevo JL, Zetterberg H, Alber J, Faust D, Gauthier S, Gold M, Harrison J, Lee AK, Snyder PJ. A Neuropsychological Perspective on Defining Cognitive Impairment in the Clinical Study of Alzheimer’s Disease: Towards a More Continuous Approach. J Alzheimers Dis 2022; 86:511-524. [DOI: 10.3233/jad-215098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The global fight against Alzheimer’s disease (AD) poses unique challenges for the field of neuropsychology. Along with the increased focus on early detection of AD pathophysiology, characterizing the earliest clinical stage of the disease has become a priority. We believe this is an important time for neuropsychology to consider how our approach to the characterization of cognitive impairment can be improved to detect subtle cognitive changes during early-stage AD. The present article aims to provide a critical examination of how we define and measure cognitive status in the context of aging and AD. First, we discuss pitfalls of current methods for defining cognitive impairment within the context of research shifting to earlier (pre)symptomatic disease stages. Next, we introduce a shift towards a more continuous approach for identifying early markers of cognitive decline and characterizing progression and discuss how this may be facilitated by novel assessment approaches. Finally, we summarize potential implications and challenges of characterizing cognitive status using a continuous approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roos J. Jutten
- Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Louisa Thompson
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Memory and Aging Program, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Sietske A.M. Sikkes
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Maruff
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - José Luis Molinuevo
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
- Alzheimer’s Disease and Other Cognitive Disorders Unit, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience & Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, UCL Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at UCL, London, UK
| | - Jessica Alber
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
- George and Anne Ryan Institute for Neuroscience, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | - David Faust
- Department of Psychology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
| | | | | | - John Harrison
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Metis Cognition Ltd, Kilmington Common, UK
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King’s College London, UK
| | - Athene K.W. Lee
- Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
- Memory and Aging Program, Butler Hospital, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Peter J. Snyder
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, The University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, USA
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14
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Milne R, Altomare D, Ribaldi F, Molinuevo JL, Frisoni GB, Brayne C. Societal and equity challenges for Brain Health Services. A user manual for Brain Health Services-part 6 of 6. Alzheimers Res Ther 2021; 13:173. [PMID: 34635173 PMCID: PMC8507368 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-021-00885-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Brain Health Services are a novel approach to the personalized prevention of dementia. In this paper, we consider how such services can best reflect their social, cultural, and economic context and, in doing so, deliver fair and equitable access to risk reduction. We present specific areas of challenge associated with the social context for dementia prevention. The first concentrates on how Brain Health Services engage with the "at-risk" individual, recognizing the range of factors that shape an individual's risk of dementia and the efficacy of risk reduction measures. The second emphasizes the social context of Brain Health Services themselves and their ability to provide equitable access to risk reduction. We then elaborate proposals for meeting or mitigating these challenges. We suggest that considering these challenges will enable Brain Health Services to address two fundamental questions: the balance between an individualized "high-risk" and population focus for public health prevention and the ability of services to meet ethical standards of justice and health equity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Milne
- Society and Ethics Research Group, Wellcome Connecting Science, Hinxton, UK.
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Daniele Altomare
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Memory Clinic, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Federica Ribaldi
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Memory Clinic, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Alzheimer's Neuroimaging and Epidemiology (LANE), Saint John of God Clinical Research Centre, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - José Luis Molinuevo
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center, Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giovanni B Frisoni
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Memory Clinic, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Carol Brayne
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
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15
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Visser LNC, Minguillon C, Sánchez-Benavides G, Abramowicz M, Altomare D, Fauria K, Frisoni GB, Georges J, Ribaldi F, Scheltens P, van der Schaar J, Zwan M, van der Flier WM, Molinuevo JL. Dementia risk communication. A user manual for Brain Health Services-part 3 of 6. Alzheimers Res Ther 2021; 13:170. [PMID: 34635169 PMCID: PMC8507171 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-021-00840-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests dementia incidence can be reduced through prevention programs targeting risk factors. To accelerate the implementation of such prevention programs, a new generation of brain health services (BHS) is envisioned, involving risk profiling, risk communication, risk reduction, and cognitive enhancement. The purpose of risk communication is to enable individuals at risk to make informed decisions and take action to protect themselves and is thus a crucial step in tailored prevention strategies of the dementia incidence. However, communicating about dementia risk is complex and challenging.In this paper, we provide an overview of (i) perspectives on communicating dementia risk from an ethical, clinical, and societal viewpoint; (ii) insights gained from memory clinical practice; (iii) available evidence on the impact of disclosing APOE and Alzheimer's disease biomarker test results gathered from clinical trials and observational studies; (iv) the value of established registries in light of BHS; and (v) practical recommendations regarding effective strategies for communicating about dementia risk.In addition, we identify challenges, i.e., the current lack of evidence on what to tell on an individual level-the actual risk-and on how to optimally communicate about dementia risk, especially concerning worried yet cognitively unimpaired individuals. Ideally, dementia risk communication strategies should maximize the desired impact of risk information on individuals' understanding of their health/disease status and risk perception and minimize potential harms. More research is thus warranted on the impact of dementia risk communication, to (1) evaluate the merits of different approaches to risk communication on outcomes in the cognitive, affective and behavioral domains, (2) develop an evidence-based, harmonized dementia risk communication protocol, and (3) develop e-tools to support and promote adherence to this protocol in BHSs.Based on the research reviewed, we recommend that dementia risk communication should be precise; include the use of absolute risks, visual displays, and time frames; based on a process of shared decision-making; and address the inherent uncertainty that comes with any probability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie N C Visser
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Center for Alzheimer Research, Division of Clinical Geriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, Sweden.
| | - Carolina Minguillon
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, Spain.
- IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain.
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Madrid, Spain.
| | - Gonzalo Sánchez-Benavides
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
- IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Marc Abramowicz
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Diagnostics, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Daniele Altomare
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Memory Clinic, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Karine Fauria
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
- IMIM (Hospital del Mar Medical Research Institute), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Giovanni B Frisoni
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Memory Clinic, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Federica Ribaldi
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Diagnostics, Geneva University Hospitals and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Neuroimaging of Aging (LANVIE), University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Laboratory of Alzheimer's Neuroimaging and Epidemiology (LANE), Saint John of God Clinical Research Centre, Brescia, Italy
- Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Philip Scheltens
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jetske van der Schaar
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marissa Zwan
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wiesje M van der Flier
- Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, Department of Neurology, Amsterdam Neuroscience, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - José Luis Molinuevo
- Barcelonaβeta Brain Research Center (BBRC), Pasqual Maragall Foundation, Barcelona, Spain
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16
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Mozersky J, Hartz S, Linnenbringer E, Levin L, Streitz M, Stock K, Moulder K, Morris JC. Communicating 5-Year Risk of Alzheimer's Disease Dementia: Development and Evaluation of Materials that Incorporate Multiple Genetic and Biomarker Research Results. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 79:559-572. [PMID: 33337371 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cognitively normal (CN) older adults participating in Alzheimer's disease (AD) research increasingly ask for their research results-including genetic and neuroimaging findings-to understand their risk of developing AD dementia. AD research results are typically not returned for multiple reasons, including possible psychosocial harms of knowing one is at risk of a highly feared and untreatable disease. OBJECTIVE We developed materials that convey information about 5-year absolute risk of developing AD dementia based on research results. METHODS 20 CN older adults who received a research brain MRI result were interviewed regarding their wishes for research results to inform material development (Pilot 1). Following material development, 17 CN older adults evaluated the materials for clarity and acceptability (Pilot 2). All participants were community-dwelling older adults participating in longitudinal studies of aging at a single site. RESULTS Participants want information on their risk of developing AD dementia to better understand their own health, satisfy curiosity, inform family, and future planning. Some articulated concerns, but the majority wanted to know their risk despite the limitations of information. Participants found the educational materials and results report clear and acceptable, and the majority would want to know their research results after reviewing them. CONCLUSION These materials will be used in a clinical study examining the psychosocial and cognitive effects of offering research results to a cohort of CN older adults. Future AD research may incorporate the return of complex risk information to CN older adults, and materials are needed to communicate this information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Mozersky
- Bioethics Research Center, Division of General Medical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sarah Hartz
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Erin Linnenbringer
- Department of Surgery, Division of Public Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lillie Levin
- Bioethics Research Center, Division of General Medical Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Marissa Streitz
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; and Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kristin Stock
- Washington University Danforth College of Arts and Sciences (post-baccalaureate program) and Music Speaks, LLC
| | - Krista Moulder
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; and Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - John C Morris
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO; and Knight Alzheimer Disease Research Center, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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17
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Rosin ER, Blasco D, Pilozzi AR, Yang LH, Huang X. A Narrative Review of Alzheimer's Disease Stigma. J Alzheimers Dis 2021; 78:515-528. [PMID: 33044185 PMCID: PMC7739963 DOI: 10.3233/jad-200932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
As the most common form of senile dementia, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is accompanied by a great deal of uncertainty which can lead to fear and stigma for those identified with this devastating disease. As the AD definition evolves from a syndromal to a biological construct, and early diagnoses becomes more commonplace, more confusion and stigma may result. We conducted a narrative review of the literature on AD stigma to consolidate information on this body of research. From the perspective of several stigma theories, we identified relevant studies to inform our understanding of the way in which implementation of the new framework for a biological based AD diagnosis may have resulted in new and emerging stigma. Herein, we discuss the emergence of new AD stigma as our understanding of the definition of the disease changes. We further propose recommendations for future research to reduce the stigma associated with AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric R Rosin
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Drew Blasco
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alexander R Pilozzi
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Lawrence H Yang
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Global Public Health, New York University, New York, NY, USA.,Department of Epidemiology, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Xudong Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA, USA
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18
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Lohmeyer JL, Alpinar-Sencan Z, Schicktanz S. Attitudes towards prediction and early diagnosis of late-onset dementia: a comparison of tested persons and family caregivers. Aging Ment Health 2021; 25:832-843. [PMID: 32091238 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1727851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background: The focus on early detection of dementia and Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) diagnosis has entered the clinics' daily routine. However, there exist epistemic uncertainty and moral concerns whether early detection and prediction of dementia is clinically meaningful for the people affected, primarily due to the lack of effective treatment options.Methods: In this study, we adopted qualitative research methods. Twelve face-to-face interviews with tested persons with MCI and early dementia and five focus groups with family caregivers were conducted in Germany in order to explore and analyze their understanding and assessments of early detection and prediction of dementia in memory clinics.Results: Our study revealed that there was much uncertainty among the participants diagnosed with MCI especially when compared to the participants with an early dementia diagnosis. Their uncertainty concerned the meaning of a 'MCI' diagnosis as well as the validity of specific biomarker test results. Moreover, we identified different lines of moral issues for and against the tests among the participants. They include a) inter-familiar conflicts of interest in the initial phase of memory problems, b) the hope for (future) therapy and prevention, c) the desire for easier access to experts in memory clinics, d) advance planning, e) stigmatization, as well as, f) suicide as an option to avoid the future loss of self-determination.Conclusions: Current clinical and communication strategies only partly address the perspectives and needs of the affected. A standardized and ethically reflected procedure of the information provided by professionals before testing and afterwards, during disclosure, seems necessary. Further, longitudinal studies are needed to improve our knowledge about the experiences tested persons and family caregivers have with different levels of stigma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johann Leopold Lohmeyer
- Department of Medical Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Zümrüt Alpinar-Sencan
- Department of Medical Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Silke Schicktanz
- Department of Medical Ethics and History of Medicine, University Medical Center Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany
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19
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Ursin F, Timmermann C, Steger F. Ethical Implications of Alzheimer's Disease Prediction in Asymptomatic Individuals through Artificial Intelligence. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11030440. [PMID: 33806501 PMCID: PMC7998766 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11030440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Biomarker-based predictive tests for subjectively asymptomatic Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are utilized in research today. Novel applications of artificial intelligence (AI) promise to predict the onset of AD several years in advance without determining biomarker thresholds. Until now, little attention has been paid to the new ethical challenges that AI brings to the early diagnosis in asymptomatic individuals, beyond contributing to research purposes, when we still lack adequate treatment. The aim of this paper is to explore the ethical arguments put forward for AI aided AD prediction in subjectively asymptomatic individuals and their ethical implications. The ethical assessment is based on a systematic literature search. Thematic analysis was conducted inductively of 18 included publications. The ethical framework includes the principles of autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Reasons for offering predictive tests to asymptomatic individuals are the right to know, a positive balance of the risk-benefit assessment, and the opportunity for future planning. Reasons against are the lack of disease modifying treatment, the accuracy and explicability of AI aided prediction, the right not to know, and threats to social rights. We conclude that there are serious ethical concerns in offering early diagnosis to asymptomatic individuals and the issues raised by the application of AI add to the already known issues. Nevertheless, pre-symptomatic testing should only be offered on request to avoid inflicted harm. We recommend developing training for physicians in communicating AI aided prediction.
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20
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Chang CY, Hsu HC. Relationship between Knowledge and Types of Attitudes towards People Living with Dementia. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17113777. [PMID: 32466533 PMCID: PMC7312095 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17113777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between knowledge and attitudes towards dementia among adults. A cross-sectional online survey with purposive sampling was conducted in four district health centers in Taichung, Taiwan, in 2018. Knowledge was measured by the Taiwanese version of the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Scale. Attitudes towards people with dementia were measured by four kinds of feelings: discomfort, shame, avoidance, and fear. In total, 347 persons completed the questionnaire. Knowledge of dementia was modest. Higher education, a care-related background, chronic health conditions, experience caring for people with dementia, and knowledge of family history were related to higher knowledge of dementia. Attitudes towards people with dementia were grouped into four clusters: uncomfortable (22.2%), ashamed (2.6%), unfriendly (22.5%), and non-negative (52.7%). Knowledge of dementia was significantly related to the ashamed cluster but not to the other clusters. Lower education, a lack of caring experience, and a lack of knowledge of family history were related to uncomfortable feelings, and poorer financial satisfaction was related to uncomfortable, afraid, and avoidant feelings. The open-question expression of feelings towards dementia was more likely to be negative (55.3%). The public should be educated on knowledge of and friendly attitudes towards dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Yu Chang
- Department of Healthcare Administration, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan;
- South District Public Health Center, Taichung City Government, Taichung 402332, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Chuan Hsu
- School of Public Health, Research Center of Health Equity, College of Public Health, Taipei Medical University, Taipei 11031, Taiwan
- Correspondence:
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21
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Pilozzi A, Huang X. Overcoming Alzheimer's Disease Stigma by Leveraging Artificial Intelligence and Blockchain Technologies. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E183. [PMID: 32210011 PMCID: PMC7139597 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10030183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 03/20/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) imposes a considerable burden on those diagnosed. Faced with a neurodegenerative decline for which there is no effective cure or prevention method, sufferers of the disease are subject to judgement, both self-imposed and otherwise, that can have a great deal of effect on their lives. The burden of this stigma is more than just psychological, as reluctance to face an AD diagnosis can lead people to avoid early diagnosis, treatment, and research opportunities that may be beneficial to them, and that may help progress towards fighting AD and its progression. In this review, we discuss how recent advents in information technology may be employed to help fight this stigma. Using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, specifically natural language processing (NLP), to classify the sentiment and tone of texts, such as those of online posts on various social media sites, has proven to be an effective tool for assessing the opinions of the general public on certain topics. These tools can be used to analyze the public stigma surrounding AD. Additionally, there is much concern among individuals that an AD diagnosis, or evidence of pre-clinical AD such as a biomarker or imaging test results, may wind up unintentionally disclosed to an entity that may discriminate against them. The lackluster security record of many medical institutions justifies this fear to an extent. Adopting more secure and decentralized methods of data transfer and storage, and giving patients enhanced ability to control their own data, such as a blockchain-based method, may help to alleviate some of these fears.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Xudong Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA;
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22
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Roberts JS. Assessing the Psychological Impact of Genetic Susceptibility Testing. Hastings Cent Rep 2019; 49 Suppl 1:S38-S43. [PMID: 31268575 PMCID: PMC7026861 DOI: 10.1002/hast.1015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The expanded use of genetic testing raises key ethical and policy questions about possible benefits and harms for those receiving disease-risk information. As predictive testing for Huntington's was initiated in a clinical setting, survey research posing hypothetical test scenarios suggested that the vast majority of at-risk relatives wanted to know whether they carried a disease-causing mutation. However, only a small minority ultimately availed themselves of this opportunity. Many at-risk individuals concluded that a positive test result would be too psychologically overwhelming. A substantial literature suggests that individuals are often more resilient than anticipated in coping with many different health-related stresses. Much of my own work in the field has been through the Risk Evaluation & Education for Alzheimer's Disease study (REVEAL), a series of randomized clinical trials assessing the impact of genetic susceptibility testing on asymptomatic individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease. Our experience in developing and implementing four successive, multisite trials provides some potentially useful lessons for the field. More people will be asking for their personal genetic information. Better understanding will help us decide when access is appropriate and how best to disclose results in a manner that supports adjustment to test findings and promotes use of genetic information to improve human health.
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23
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Questions concerning the role of amyloid-β in the definition, aetiology and diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease. Acta Neuropathol 2018; 136:663-689. [PMID: 30349969 PMCID: PMC6208728 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-018-1918-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 129] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The dominant hypothesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) aetiology, the neuropathological guidelines for diagnosing AD and the majority of high-profile therapeutic efforts, in both research and in clinical practice, have been built around one possible causal factor, amyloid-β (Aβ). However, the causal link between Aβ and AD remains unproven. Here, in the context of a detailed assessment of historical and contemporary studies, we raise critical questions regarding the role of Aβ in the definition, diagnosis and aetiology of AD. We illustrate that a holistic view of the available data does not support an unequivocal conclusion that Aβ has a central or unique role in AD. Instead, the data suggest alternative views of AD aetiology are potentially valid, at this time. We propose that an unbiased way forward for the field, beyond the current Aβ-centric approach, without excluding a role for Aβ, is required to come to an accurate understanding of AD dementia and, ultimately, an effective treatment.
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