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New Gene Found to be Risk Factor for Early Frontotemporal Dementia

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Thanks to a large international group of research participants, scientists have discovered a gene called GOLGA8A. This gene may be linked to a rare subtype of frontotemporal dementia (FTD), an early-onset dementia affecting behavior and language. The study shows that differences in this gene could influence how specific parts of the brain develop and work, which might help explain why some people are more likely to develop FTD than others. This finding adds to the growing understanding that genetics play an important role in diseases that affect the brain and nervous system and could lead to earlier detection and more personalized treatment in the future.  

To learn more, visit this link. To access the original scientific article, visit this link. 

New Gene Found to Be a Risk Factor for Early Frontotemporal Dementia

Could a Nasal Swab Help Catch Alzheimer’s Disease Sooner?

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Researchers at Duke Health are exploring a simple nasal swab test that may help detect early signs of Alzheimer’s disease before symptoms appear. By analyzing early biological changes in the body, this non-invasive approach could make screening more accessible and improve early diagnosis. While still in development, this promising tool highlights how easier, more accessible approaches may change how we detect and study Alzheimer’s disease in the future. 

To learn more, visit this link.

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Spring 2026 Newsletter

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Learn how to support your brain in the spring edition of the NC Brain Health newsletter. This issue highlights helpful brain health tips, research opportunities, and upcoming community events happening across North Carolina.

Thank you for being part of our community. Your support helps advance brain health research and education throughout the state.

Click here to view the full newsletter and join us on Facebook.

Study Highlight – Music Therapy for Caregivers of People with Parkinson’s Disease

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Many of you emailed us asking how to get involved in research. All our supported studies can be found on our website under the Registry Studies tab. We plan to share a research study each month. This month, we are highlighting the latest study: Music Therapy for Caregivers of People with Parkinson’s Disease (MY CARE TO TAKE CARE RESEARCH STUDY), a four-week online study on music therapy and mindful movement for care partners of people with Parkinson’s disease. If you are interested in participating, please fill out the Studies Interest Form at this link.

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Caregiving by the Numbers – Part 2

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

Last month, we provided you with the 2025 Caregiving in the U.S. Report statistics. This month, we share the North Carolina report. In our state, over a third (38%) of caregivers have been providing care for three or more years. Understandably, many caregivers feel unprepared and overwhelmed. This report highlights the importance of better access to caregiver resources, flexible work options, financial support, and easily accessible community services. Strengthening support for caregivers is vital to the health and well-being of families and communities. 

To read the North Carolina report, visit this link. 

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Healthy Eating Promotes Brain Health

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A Mediterranean-style diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, beans, and healthy fats is connected to better brain health. This way of eating can be especially helpful for communities of color, who often experience higher rates of heart and vascular health conditions that can impact the brain. Because this diet can be adapted to many cultural traditions, it offers a flexible and practical way to support both heart and brain health across the lifespan.  

To learn more about the Mediterranean-style diet and its effects on your health, visit the American Heart Association’s website. You can also visit this link to learn more about foods you can eat more regularly to promote brain health. You can take a deeper dive into how diet affects brain health by visiting the American Heart Association’s website. They also have resources to guide you on your healthy eating journey at this link. For healthy recipe ideas, visit this link. 

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Caregiving by the Numbers

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

The 2025 Caregiving in the U.S. Report highlights the growing challenges faced by the nation's 53 million family caregivers, many of whom are supporting loved ones with complex medical, cognitive, and mobility needs. Nearly one in four Americans are caregivers, and in North Carolina, 60% of these caregivers are balancing the demands of providing care while working. The report also confirms what we have been reporting for some time: caregivers are providing more hours of care without enough support, experiencing higher levels of stress, increased financial strain, and declining physical and mental health. Enhancing support for caregivers is vital to the health and well-being of families and communities.

To learn more about this report, visit this link.

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A Vaccine for Your Brain: Surprising Benefits of the Shingles Shot

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A new study offers encouraging news about both brain and immune health. The shingles vaccine, which is already recommended for adults age 50+ to prevent a painful viral infection, may also help lower dementia risk and even slow its progression. Researchers analyzing health data from more than 280,000 older adults in Wales and Australia found that people who received the shingles vaccine were less likely to develop mild cognitive impairment or dementia. Researchers found that, among those already living with dementia, vaccinated individuals had a significantly lower risk of dying over nine years. Scientists believe the vaccine may reduce harmful inflammation in the nervous system or strengthen the immune system, though more research is needed to understand why these benefits occur. While not a guaranteed preventive measure, experts agree that discussing the shingles vaccine with your doctor is a simple, accessible step that may support healthier aging and brain health.

To read more, visit this link.

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The Connection Between Oral Health and the Brain

Posted on by Manda Hufstedler

A new study suggests that adults with gum disease may be more likely to show signs of damage in their brain's white matter, changes linked to memory problems, slower thinking, balance issues, and higher stroke risk. Researchers found that those with gum disease had more white matter hyperintensities on brain scans, even after accounting for age, blood pressure, diabetes, and smoking. While the study does not prove that gum disease causes brain changes, it strengthens growing evidence that oral health and brain health may be connected. Experts note that gum disease can be prevented and treated, and maintaining good dental hygiene is an important step in supporting long-term brain health. 

To learn more, visit this link.

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