The study found the lower the fitness level, the greater the deterioration of white matter in the brain. White matter refers to the millions of nerve fibers that communicate across the brain. When white matter deteriorates, cognitive decline occurs, eventually leading to dementia.
The study included older individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s disease who displayed early signs of memory loss. The results indicated that a lower fitness level was associated with less white matter, which was correlated with reduced brain function.
The O’Donnell Brain Institute is leading a five-year study to explore fitness levels and Alzheimer’s disease to determine how the two are connected. The study will include participants from six medical centers across America and 600 older adults at-risk for Alzheimer’s disease. The researchers goal is to determine whether or not aerobic activity and managing blood pressure and cholesterol positively correlates with a reduce risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Trial supervisor Dr. Rong Zhang explained, “Evidence suggests that what is bad for your heart is bad for your brain. We need studies like this to find out how the two are intertwined and hopefully find the right formula to help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.”
Other team members are exploring tests to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease early along with looking for ways to prevent the build-up of toxic plaques in the brain, which also contribute to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Although there is still plenty of work that needs to be done to better understand dementia, researchers are getting closer to a cure.
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