Objectives While adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have been consistently linked to poorer cognitive outcomes in later life, far less is known about ACEs' contribution to dementia and cognitive ageing risk in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs), despite their growing and disproportionate share of global Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) burden. This study aimed to systematically review existing evidence on the association between individual ACEs and cognitive outcomes among adults aged 40 years and older in LMIC settings.
Design Systematic review and narrative synthesis. Data source We searched Medline, Embase, PsycINFO and CINAHL from the inception of each database to January 2026.
Eligibility criteria Observational studies examining the association between individual ACEs and cognitive outcomes among adults aged 40 and older in LMICs. Data extraction and synthesis Two reviewers independently screened each record, assessed risk of bias using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tool and extracted data.
Results were illustrated using descriptive forest plots and a narrative synthesis.
BMJ Open published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 06 Apr 2026.
The item focuses on Adverse childhood experiences and cognitive outcomes among older adults in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review.
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