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Health & Aging Brain Study – Health Disparities

Eligibility:

Are you a Candidate?

30 +

You must be 30 years or older.

Demographics

Hispanic, African American or Non-Hispanic White

Imaging

You must be willing and able to undergo an MRI and a PET scan.

Avalibility

You must be available over a three day period (non-consecutive is ok) for a total of 8-9 hours.

How it works

This study involved undergoing a baseline evaluation then a follow up every two years. Each evaluation has six components:

1: Interview and Testing of Your Memory and Thinking

The interview will tell us a bit about your lifestyle and health factors. The testing of your memory and thinking will measure your attention, reasoning, and other skills.

2: Blood Draw

The blood draw helps us understand the biological and genetic factors that influence aging. You will be asked to provide several tablespoons of blood for standard blood work.

3: Research Functional Exam

You will be asked to perform some motor tests such as standing up and walking a short distance.

4: Informant Interview

You will be asked to provide the name of a person we can contact to ask questions about your memory and daily activities.

5: MRI Scan

The MRI of the head shows us the volume and thickness of the brain. It also tells us if you have bleeding, inflammation, damage from an injury or stroke, or problems with your blood vessels. You will have to lie still for the duration of the scan.

6: PET Scan

The PET scan can show us if you have proteins in your brain that can lead to the development of Alzheimer’s disease. This scan involves injecting a liquid containing a small amount of radiation, which is considered safe. You may eat and drink normally after your visit, but try to drink more water. Although the amount of radiation from the scan is low, consider limiting contact with women who are pregnant and young children for a few hours.