The impact of air pollution on early signs of dementia

Air pollution and early signs of dementia

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-10898884

This study is looking at how air pollution might affect brain health and contribute to conditions like Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how the air we breathe could impact our memory and thinking as we age.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-10898884 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to air pollution may contribute to the development of dementia, specifically focusing on Alzheimer's disease and vascular cognitive impairment. By analyzing data from over 23,000 participants in various longitudinal studies, the research aims to differentiate between the causes of dementia and assess the role of air pollution in cognitive decline. Participants will undergo detailed neurocognitive testing and biomarker assessments to understand the relationship between air quality and brain health over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults who are currently unaffected or minimally affected by cognitive decline and live in areas with varying levels of air pollution.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced dementia or those who do not reside in areas with significant air pollution exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and prevention strategies for dementia linked to air pollution.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown associations between air pollution and cognitive decline, but this study aims to provide more detailed insights and is considered a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.