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With the aging of the U.S. population, the number of people impacted by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) is expected to increase. Although these last few years have seen exciting developments with the FDA’s approval of a new “disease-modifying” medication for early Alzheimer’s disease, the search for safer and more effective treatments continues, as does the need to ensure new medications are effective in diverse populations. A key piece of this is expanding our understanding of factors that influence an individual’s risk of disease-related memory loss, and differentiating brain changes that occur with aging vs. disease-related memory loss.
Multiple different types of studies are important for addressing these research questions. For example, observational studies, which may involve following individuals over time with memory tests, and sometimes non-invasive brain imaging, help improve our understanding of healthy aging and diseases that cause memory loss. They also help understand the ways in which these diseases impact individuals and families. Additionally, intervention studies (aka clinical trials) assess whether new treatments or lifestyle changes help reduce symptoms of memory loss or improve care for patients living with ADRD. Importantly, those with and without memory concerns and their caregivers may be able to participate in these different types of studies.
Participant diversity is essential. Researchers nationwide are working hard to expand the diversity of their research studies to ensure new discoveries benefit everyone. This includes brain health programs at the Johns Hopkins Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center (JHADRC), which supports a broad range of both observational and intervention studies.
Here’s a few facts highlighting the importance of inclusive brain health studies:
- Baltimore City and Prince George’s County are estimated to have among the highest levels of Alzheimer’s diagnoses in the nation.
- Black older adults are two times more likely, and Hispanic older adults 1.5 times more likely than Non-Hispanic Whites to have Alzheimer’s and other dementias.
- Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) people are 29% more likely to report early signs of dementia.
Reasons for these disparities are not well understood, but the JHADRC is optimistic that if more people from all backgrounds participate in brain health studies, together, we can make strides towards helping to develop new interventions that benefit everyone.
Moreover, study participants may benefit from a better understanding of their own cognitive abilities and brain health through free exams and regular monitoring by health professionals. They can also be gratified by helping to advance improved treatments and preventive strategies for ADRD, contributing to the development of the next medical breakthrough, and making a meaningful difference from which they and future generations may benefit.
Learn more about getting involved:
- Visit Participate in Research
- Call 443-542-7489
The post Diverse, Inclusive Studies Are Key to Finding Effective Dementia Treatments appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.
