The PROTECT Study is a dementia research trial being run by the Institute of Psychiatry at King’s College London that is recruiting through Join Dementia Research.

How does it work?

The aim of the study is to improve understanding of the way our brains age, and why some people develop dementia, in order to develop better ways of treating and preventing it. PROTECT will look at the role that things like genetics play in the ageing brain, and will investigate which factors affect our risk of dementia – for example, exercise, smoking and diet.

Participants in the study will provide information about themselves, complete assessments to measure things like memory and reasoning, and provide a sample of their DNA using an at-home kit. They will also have the option to participate in additional sub-studies, such as giving blood or spinal fluid samples so that these can be analysed for dementia indicators.

Get Involved

The PROTECT study needs at least 5,000 people to take part, and anyone who is over 50 and who does not have dementia or any other neurodegenerative condition, is eligible. The study will take place predominantly on-line – so it’s possible to participate from anywhere in the U.K. – and will be repeated annually over a 10 year period.

To find out more, visit the PROTECT website, or sign up to Join Dementia Research today to be considered for participation and see other studies that you might be able to take part in!