Understanding swallowing difficulties in Alzheimer's disease
Swallowing Trajectories and DysPHagia Predictors in AlzheimER’s DisEase (SPHERE)
This study is looking at the swallowing problems that people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions often face, to understand what causes these issues and how they change over time, so we can find better ways to help manage them and prevent serious health problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11079467 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia, that often occur in individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It aims to identify the factors that contribute to these swallowing issues and how they change as the disease progresses. By conducting a detailed, long-term study of patients at different stages of dementia, the research seeks to uncover early signs of swallowing impairment and improve clinical management. The ultimate goal is to develop effective interventions to prevent serious health complications associated with dysphagia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly in the early stages of the disease.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease who are unable to participate in assessments or interventions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better management and treatment options for swallowing difficulties in patients with Alzheimer's disease, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been successful interventions for dysphagia in other neurodegenerative diseases, this specific approach in Alzheimer's disease is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rogus-Pulia, Nicole M — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Rogus-Pulia, Nicole M
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.