The primary aim of this research is to examine how occupational and environmental factors influence brain structure using MRI data. Specifically, the study focuses on identifying structural brain changes linked to various occupational hazards such as noise, dust, shift work, work-related stress, and environmental stressors including ambient temperature, industrial surroundings, and exposure to green spaces.
Through analysis of brain MRI scans from a substantial cohort provided by the UK Biobank, the research seeks to elucidate the relationship between occupational and environmental factors and alterations in brain structure, potentially contributing to the onset of neurodegenerative diseases. The results from this study will assist in developing targeted strategies to preserve brain health amidst various lifestyle and occupational conditions.
To achieve these objectives, we require comprehensive data sets encompassing brain MRI images, occupational histories, and environmental exposure records from UK Biobank participants. Additionally, demographic information (age, sex, education, socioeconomic status), health-related data (medical history, lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol consumption), and cognitive assessments will be analyzed. Genetic information (Tier 3) may also be included to account for genetic variability, given the preliminary nature of the study.
Advanced neuroimaging techniques, such as FreeSurfer analysis for measuring grey matter volume and white matter integrity, voxel-based morphometry (VBM), and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), will be employed to identify and quantify brain structural differences. Occupational data will be systematically categorized according to the degree of risk associated with neurodegenerative processes and exposure to occupational stressors like noise and pollution. Environmental exposure data will be classified based on urban versus rural settings and air quality indices.
