The Georgetown University Memory Disorders Program is studying how to diagnose Alzheimer's and other brain-related diseases before they cause major damage. They use tests on blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is a liquid around your brain and spine. The study also looks at how lifestyle and genetics affect these diseases.
Participants can join one of two parts of the study. The "main study" involves one visit to the clinic for some cognitive tests and to provide blood or CSF samples. The "longitudinal sub-study" requires more visits. If you're in the cognitively normal group, you'll visit every other year, with phone check-ups in between. If you have mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer's, you'll visit every year.
Key Points:- Initial visit includes cognitive tests and sample collection.
- Longitudinal study involves yearly or bi-yearly follow-ups.
- Participants must be 45 or older; those 45-50 need a family history of these diseases.
No personal test results will be shared. This research helps improve future diagnoses and treatments.