Multi-omics Mendelian randomization approaches to identify causal modifiable risk factors for dementia

Project Summary

Dementia is a leading cause of disability and death worldwide, and there is currently no cure. However, the 2024 Lancet Commission Report on Dementia Prevention, Intervention, and Care suggests that nearly half of the dementia cases might be preventable by addressing 14 modifiable risk factors, such as physical inactivity, high blood pressure, and smoking. Our project aims to identify which of these risk factors causally impact dementia and how they affect men and women differently. Using advanced epidemiology methods called Mendelian randomization (MR) and multi-omics, we will analyze data from the CLSA study to explore how genetically-predicted risk factors contribute to dementia. This approach will provide causal insights into how modifiable risk factors influence dementia risk, helping to inform more effective prevention strategies for dementia in Canada and beyond.