Subjective cognitive decline higher among sexual and gender minorities in the United States, 2015-2018

Introduction Subjective cognitive decline (SCD) represents self-reported problems with memory, a possible early sign of dementia. Little is known about SCD among sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, and/or transgender or gender non-binary. Methods Data were weighted to represent population estimates from 25 states' 2015-2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System to describe SCD in adults >= 45 years by SGM status. Logistic regression tested associations between demographic and health conditions. Results SCD prevalence was higher in SGM (15.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI]:13.1-18.2) than in non-SGM adults (10.5%; 95% CI:10.1-10.9; P < .0001). SGM adults with SCD were also more likely to report functional limitations due to SCD than non-SGM adults with SCD, 60.8% versus 47.8%, P = .0048. Differences in SCD by SGM status were attenuated after accounting for depression. Discussion Higher prevalence of SCD in SGM adults highlights the importance of ensuring inclusive screenings, interventions, care services, and resources for SGM adults.

Automated summary

The prevalence of subjective cognitive decline (SCD) is higher in sexual and gender minority (SGM) adults compared to non-SGM adults, with functional limitations reported among SGM adults with SCD. The impact of SGM status on SCD is attenuated after considering depression.