Using social networks to improve early diagnosis and risk reduction for Alzheimer's disease.
Official title: Informatics-enhanced Social Networks and Affiliation Processes (ISNAP) to promote risk reduction and early diagnosis of Alzheimer's and Related Dementias.
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-10980045 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our friendships and connections, whether we see each other in person or online, can help us make better choices about health when it comes to Alzheimer's disease and related conditions, and it’s for anyone interested in learning how to support themselves or loved ones in managing these challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $691,130 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG089193-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980045 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals aged 65 and older who are at risk for or concerned about Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have any concerns related to Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how social connections, both in-person and online, can influence health behaviors related to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD). By analyzing interactions on social media and conducting surveys and interviews, the study aims to understand how individuals seek information and care for ADRD. The goal is to develop strategies that encourage healthier behaviors and facilitate early diagnosis through enhanced social support and information sharing. The research employs a mixed-methods approach grounded in behavioral theories to model these dynamics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for early diagnosis and risk reduction of Alzheimer's disease, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that leveraging social networks can effectively influence health behaviors, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Myneni, Sahiti — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Myneni, Sahiti
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.