Alzheimer's Disease Research Seeks Volunteers For Dietary Study
The fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid or DHA, which is found in small amounts in the diet, is essential for normal brain and eye development. Center researchers want to evaluate whether sustained use of DHA changes the progression of Alzheimer's disease. This research will help physicians learn more about the usefulness of DHA for future prevention and treatment of the disease.
This nationwide study of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, is funded by the National Institutes of Health. The study seeks 400 participants age 50 and older with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. During the 18-month clinical trial, researchers will measure the progress of the disease using standard tests for functional and cognitive change.
Participants in the study at the IU Center for Alzheimer's Disease will be seen approximately six times during the study. Study medication, procedures, exams and compensation for time and travel are provided.
In recent European studies and the Framingham Heart Study in the United States, scientists reported that people with the highest blood levels of DHA were about half as likely to develop dementia as those with lower levels.
"Evidence to date in various research studies that have examined the effect of omega-3 fatty acids on Alzheimer's disease merits further evaluation in a rigorous clinical trial," said Martin Farlow, M.D., principal investigator for the IU study and professor of neurology at the IU School of Medicine. "Our hope is that we may find out that DHA plays a role in slowing the progression of this destructive disease."
For more information on participating in the study, contact Sheryl Lynch, LPN, at 317-278-8307, or the NIH's Alzheimer's Disease Education and Referral Center at 1-800-438-4380 or by email to adear@nia.nih.gov.
http://www.indiana.edu
CONTACT: Mary Hardin
317-274-7722
mhardin@iupui.edu
Boala Alzheimer de cercetare cautã voluntari pentru dietã studiu - Alzheimer's Disease Research Seeks Volunteers For Dietary Study - articole medicale engleza - startsanatate