Heat Therapy for Alzheimer's Prevention
(FIGHT-AD Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
The investigators will determine if heat therapy can improve blood (Aim 1) and brain (Aim 2) glucose metabolism in cognitively healthy older adults (65+) who are at risk for AD. The investigators will also examine the degree to which changes in blood and brain glucose metabolism track together and explore several additional potential mechanisms that are critical to understanding the brain benefits of heat therapy (Aim 3). These aims will provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of heat therapy on whole body metabolic function and brain health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it requires that your medication doses have been stable for more than one month before joining.
How does heat therapy differ from other treatments for Alzheimer's prevention?
Heat therapy for Alzheimer's prevention is unique because it focuses on using heat to potentially improve blood flow and promote the clearance of harmful proteins in the brain, unlike other treatments that often involve medications or lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. This approach is novel as it targets the vascular system to aid in the removal of amyloid-beta, a protein linked to Alzheimer's, which is not a common focus in existing treatments.12345
Research Team
Jill Morris, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Kansas Medical Center
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for people aged 65 or older who are cognitively healthy but at risk for Alzheimer's Disease. They should have stable medication doses, be post-menopausal, and may have a history of metabolic issues like pre-diabetes. Those with Type 1 Diabetes, high cardiovascular risk without clearance, certain chronic diseases, heat intolerance conditions or recent heart problems cannot join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo 10 weeks of heat therapy to improve blood and brain glucose metabolism
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Water Immersion Heat Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Kansas Medical Center
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
Collaborator