Boseong County and Chosun University Gwangju Dementia Cohort Research Group Collaborate on Dementia Prevention

Promotion of Early Prediction and Precise Diagnostic Examinations for Dementia

Boseong County in South Jeolla Province (Governor Kim Cheolwoo) announced on July 23 that it conducted an "Early Prediction and Precise Diagnostic Examination for Dementia" on July 21 in collaboration with the Chosun University Gwangju Dementia Cohort Research Group, aiming to identify and track high-risk groups for dementia within the local community at an early stage.

This screening targeted approximately 30 residents of Boseong County aged 60 or older who have not been diagnosed with dementia, including residents of Dementia Safety Villages and those who wished to participate.

Boseong County Dementia Safety Center and Chosun University Gwangju Dementia Cohort Research Group are conducting a questionnaire screening test for early prediction and precise diagnostic examination of dementia. Provided by Boseong County

The examination consisted of a cognitive screening test (CIST), a basic medical interview, blood tests, and APOE gene testing. The tests were conducted jointly by the Boseong County Dementia Safety Center and the Chosun University Gwangju Dementia Cohort Research Group.

If a participant is determined to be in a high-risk group based on the first round of tests, they are referred for a second round of precise examinations, which include detailed neuropsychological tests and EEG tests. These follow-up tests are conducted in stages to more accurately track individuals at high risk for dementia.

This program is being implemented as part of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between Boseong County and the Chosun University Gwangju Dementia Cohort Research Group on April 8, and all examinations are provided free of charge.

The second group screening is scheduled for August 11, and the county plans to actively promote the program through senior centers and village halls to ensure that more residents can benefit from it.

A county official stated, "We hope that early detection of dementia through precise diagnostic examinations will enable appropriate treatment and management, thereby substantially reducing the pain and burden on patients and their families."

Meanwhile, Boseong County is pursuing a variety of policies for the early detection and prevention of dementia among residents aged 60 or older, including early dementia screening, registration and management upon diagnosis, financial support for dementia treatment and management, operation of dementia patient care centers, and missing person prevention programs.