Approved Research

The effects of lifestyle and environmental factors on neurodegeneration

Lay summary

Neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia affect millions of older adults globally and their causes are poorly understood. Emerging evidence has linked a number of lifestyle and environmental factors to cognitive decline and dementia risk. However, the underlying mechanisms by which these factors affect cognition and dementia pathology remains unknown. The complex interplay between environmental and lifestyle exposures further complicates these relationships. Our project aims to explore the relationship between lifestyle factors and selected neurodegenerative diseases. We will also explore the effects of environmental factors as well as their interactions with lifestyle factors on the risk of these diseases. Results from our project will provide a better understanding of the impact of lifestyle and environmental factors on risk of neurogenerative disease and aid research efforts in disease prevention and intervention. The project is expected to be completed in 36 months.