U of A to lead study on possible connection between carotid artery disease and Alzheimer's

The University of Arizona College of Medicine will lead a study to determine the impact of carotid disease on cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease. The National Institutes of Health has awarded a nearly $5 million grant U to Uof A for the study. Carotid artery disease causes about 10-20% of all strokes due to clogged blood vessels that deliver blood to the brain. Researchers say finding a connection between that disease and Alzheimer’s could provide new opportunities to prevent dementia, as carotid disease is a modifiable risk factor. The study will recruit 240 patients initially who will undergo advanced imaging and neurocognitive testing, among other procedures.