Approved Research

Using functional principal component analysis to investigate the associations between rest-activity patterns and dementia

Lay summary

Our research project aims to understand how physical activity patterns influence the risk of developing dementia. We will use data from the UK Biobank, which includes information from over half a million people. By examining the relationships between physical activity and dementia risk, we hope to discover if being more active can protect against dementia.

The scientific rationale behind our study is that physical activity has been linked to better brain health and reduced risk of dementia. However, much of the previous research relied on self-reported activity levels, which may not be accurate. In our study, we will use actigraph devices to objectively measure physical activity patterns, providing more reliable data.

Our project will last for several years, and we will analyze the data to uncover any associations between physical activity and dementia risk. We will explore how different types of activity, such as walking, jogging, or sitting, may impact the chances of developing dementia. Additionally, we will investigate if the effects differ for various age groups and genders.

The public health impact of our research is significant. Understanding how physical activity can affect dementia risk can lead to better prevention strategies. If we find that being physically active is protective against dementia, this information can guide public health initiatives to promote physical activity for brain health. It may also help individuals make informed lifestyle choices to reduce their risk of dementia.

By using objective measures of physical activity and analyzing a large, diverse dataset, our study has the potential to provide valuable insights into dementia prevention. Our findings could influence public health policies and encourage people of all ages to stay active for better brain health. Ultimately, we hope that our research contributes to a world where fewer people suffer from the devastating effects of dementia.