The link between food insecurity and dementia risk

Lifecourse food insecurity and dementia risk

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10525485

This study is looking at how not having enough food at different times in life might affect the chances of getting Alzheimer's and other types of dementia as we get older, and it’s for anyone interested in how diet and financial struggles can impact brain health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10525485 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how food insecurity throughout a person's life may influence the risk of developing Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias. By analyzing data from large, long-term studies, the researchers aim to understand whether experiencing food insecurity at different ages affects cognitive health in older adults. The study will look at both current food insecurity and patterns over time, including the impact of nutritional assistance programs. This approach will help clarify the relationship between diet, socioeconomic factors, and dementia risk.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who have experienced food insecurity at any point in their lives.

Not a fit: Patients who have never experienced food insecurity or who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing dementia by addressing food insecurity.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited quantitative research in this area, previous studies have suggested a connection between socioeconomic factors and cognitive decline, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.