Epidemiology of neurodegenerative diseases in the East African region: A meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION: There is a scarcity of epidemiological data on neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) in East Africa. This meta-analysis provides the regional prevalence of NDs, their contributing factors, and evidence of change over time concerning gender per age or year. METHODS: Articles were retrieved from electronic databases following the PRISMA standard. RESULTS: Forty-two studies were reviewed, and 25 were meta-analyzed with a random-effects model. The pool estimate proportion of 15.27%, 95% CI (0.09–0.23) (I(2) = 98.25%), (Q = 1,369.15, p < 0.0001) among a population of 15,813 male/female and 1,257 with NDs. Epidemiological characteristics associated with NDs include Dyskinesias prevalence 55.4%, 95% CI (13.5; 90.9), I(2) (96%) and subsistence farming prevalence 11.3%, 95% CI (5.8; 20.9), I(2) (99%). Publication bias by Egger test was (z = 4.1913, p < 0.0001), while rank correlation test using Kendall's model was (tau = 0.1237, p = 0.3873). Heterogeneity (R(2) design = 5.23%, p design < 0.0001; R(2) size = 52.163%, p size < 0.001; and R(2) period = 48.13, p period < 0.0001. Covariates (R(2) design + size + period = 48.41%, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: There is a high prevalence of NDs in the East African region, which could impact life expectancy, morbidity, and quality of life. Thus, early screening and regular surveillance could assist in management strategies.