The impact of community violence on cognitive decline and Alzheimer's risk in African-Americans

Lifecourse exposure to community violence and risk of cognitive decline, Alzheimer's Disease, and related dementias among African-Americans

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-10836414

This study looks at how experiencing violence in the community throughout life impacts thinking skills and the chances of developing Alzheimer's and related memory issues in older African-Americans, hoping to uncover important links that could help improve their health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10836414 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how exposure to community violence throughout life affects cognitive function and the risk of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) among older African-Americans. It aims to understand the relationship between violence exposure during critical developmental periods and the subsequent cognitive health of individuals. By analyzing data from two longitudinal cohorts, the study will explore the cumulative effects of violence on mental health and cognitive decline. The findings could provide insights into the social determinants of health affecting this population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older African-Americans who have experienced community violence at any point in their lives.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to community violence or who do not belong to the African-American community may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that reduce the risk of cognitive decline and ADRD in African-American communities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between community violence and various health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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.