Effect of neurological screening on early dementia detection in southern Italy

<p>Objective</p> <p>Population screening can facilitate early diagnosis of dementia and improve disease management. This study examined the effects of a screening campaign for neurodegenerative disorders on the early diagnosis of dementia using 2-year follow-up data.</p> <p>Methods</p> <p>A 5-day screening campaign was conducted that comprised neurological, neuropsychological and other specialist examinations. Identification of alterations during the neurological examination was followed-up by further diagnostic examinations to confirm the neurological impairment.</p> <p>Results</p> <p>Neurological alterations were observed in 39% of the screened subjects, who were mostly diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment and referred to a dementia and cognitive disorders centre. Suspicion of neurological impairment was a risk factor for inclusion in a specific neurological ambulatory follow-up and a condition for exemption from payment for medical examinations.</p> <p>Conclusions</p> <p>Neurodegenerative screening initiatives should include subjects selected by general practitioners. It would be useful to create a network including primary care physicians and cognitive disorder centres. Telemedicine tools (e.g., teleconsulting) could also be used to facilitate early diagnosis.</p>