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Education and Dementia Risk

Author

Listed:
  • Silvia H. Barcellos
  • Leandro Carvalho
  • Kenneth Langa
  • Sneha Nimmagadda
  • Patrick Turley

Abstract

There is little causal evidence on factors that can protect individuals against Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD) risk. We study the causal effect of education on ADRD, exploiting a regression discontinuity generated by a compulsory schooling reform. ADRD was ascertained based on medical history, hospital records, and death registries, addressing concerns about selective sample attrition. We find that education reduces incidence of ADRD and may delay its onset. Using molecular genetic data, we show that the reform weakened the relationship between genetics and ADRD incidence, implying this genetic risk is not immutable and can be modified by social policy.

Suggested Citation

  • Silvia H. Barcellos & Leandro Carvalho & Kenneth Langa & Sneha Nimmagadda & Patrick Turley, 2025. "Education and Dementia Risk," NBER Working Papers 33430, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:33430
    Note: AG ED EH LS
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Sebastian Calonico & Matias D. Cattaneo & Rocio Titiunik, 2014. "Robust Nonparametric Confidence Intervals for Regression‐Discontinuity Designs," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 82, pages 2295-2326, November.
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • I1 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health
    • I2 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Education

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