O-91 The Tobago brain health study

Methods: We collected data from a previous population health survey done in Tobago. 763 adults over the age of 60 years: 325 females and 438 males between 2023 and 2025. They were previously recalled from the Tobago Health Survey done in 2019. Parameters collected include age, ethnicity, sex, education level, alcohol and cigarette use and amount of times walked per week, sleep duration, BMI, waist circumference, presence of comorbidities such as Hypertension, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Heart Disease, Lung disease, history of bone fractures, and Cancer as well as history of cigarette smoking and level of alcohol use. Blood pressure, grip strength, gait speed and perception of health were also recorded. Laboratory investigations include complete blood count, renal function, liver function, iron studies, lipid profile, inflammatory biomarkers such as hsCRP.

Results: 769 persons were assessed (433 men and 336 females) with their average age being 67 years. BMI over 25 was quite prevalent in mostly women. Half of the participants completed secondary level education and the selfreported hours of walking times were week was significantly under the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended 150 minutes per week. The overall percentage of participants with Hypertension (90%), Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (>80%) and Dyslipidaemia (>30%) was significant. Grip strength and gait speed were significantly less for women. More than 90% of patients perceived themselves as well.

Conclusion: Primary prevention policies should be directed at mental and physical health and primary prevention. While many person perceived themselves as healthy, it was realized that there was high prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, dyslipidaemia and being overweight.