Studies

What is this study?

Obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) of more than 30, is associated with a significantly increased risk of dementia, ranging from 70 per cent to threefold.

While there is significant evidence to suggest that metabolic syndrome (visceral or abdominal obesity, dyslipidemia, high blood sugar and high blood pressure) increases the risk of Alzheimer’s disease, the exact mechanisms by which metabolic syndrome and, in particular, obesity affects Alzheimer’s disease remain uncertain.

We would like to evaluate the underlying mechanisms by which obesity leads to Alzheimer’s disease using PET imaging and MRI scanning.

This pilot study, leading to a much larger clinical and preclinical PET study, has the potential to answer the important question of how obesity and metabolic syndrome cause neurodegeneration, and help us develop novel intervention strategies.

Who are we looking for?

We are interested in recruiting people with no memory problems (healthy controls) over the age of 40, with a BMI of 35 kg/m2 or more and undergoing bariatric surgery. Refreshments will be provided and travel costs will be reimbursed.

What the study involves

There are normally 3 appointments, depending how you would like to sandwich the appointments together. We can have some of the appointments on the same day, to make fewer (but longer) visits.

At the beginning of the study, you will have a medical screening and blood test (taking about one hour) and a cognitive assessment (taking about 2 hours). Then you will have an MRI scan (about one hour) and a PET scan (about 90 minutes).

All visits take place at Hammersmith Hospital.

What to do if I am interested

For more information about this study, please contact:
The Memory Team Email: memory@imperial.ac.uk
Telephone: 0208 383 3704 or 0208 383 1969 or 0208 383 4850.