Understanding Alzheimer's risk and biomarkers in older Latinos
Boston Latino Aging Study (BLAST): Understanding Alzheimer's risk and biomarkers in older Latinos
This study is looking at what might increase or decrease the risk of Alzheimer's disease in older Latinos, so we can find better ways to prevent and catch it early, and we're inviting older Latinos in Massachusetts to join us in this important research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11004153 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the factors that contribute to Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk among older Latinos, a group that experiences higher rates of the disease compared to non-Latino whites. It aims to identify both risk factors, such as mid-life hypertension and sleep disturbances, and protective factors like physical activity and healthy diets. By studying how these factors affect cognitive decline and brain function, the research seeks to improve prevention and early detection of Alzheimer's in this underserved population. Participants will be recruited from a registry of older Latinos living in Massachusetts.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older Latino adults who are community-dwelling and may be at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not Latino or who do not fall within the older adult age range may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies and treatments for Alzheimer's disease specifically tailored for older Latinos.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in identifying modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer's in diverse populations, but this specific focus on older Latinos is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Quiroz, Yakeel T. — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Quiroz, Yakeel T.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.