College of Medicine joins newly formed dementia prevention research consortium

A recent report estimates that approximately 40% of dementia cases could be prevented or delayed by targeting modifiable behavioral, physical health and psychosocial risk factors. Scientists are also developing new drug therapies and behavioral interventions to address the issue.

In response to this, Penn State has formed the Penn State Geroscience and Dementia Prevention Consortium to accelerate scientific discoveries that will prevent or delay age-related neurodegeneration. Penn State College of Medicine researchers will play an active role in the consortium’s work.

The College of Medicine’s Translational Brain Research Center, directed by Dr. Xuemei Huang, associate dean for physician-scientist development, distinguished professor of neurology, pharmacology, neurosurgery and kinesiology and chief of the Division of Movement Disorders at Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, is one of many established Penn State research centers that will contribute to the consortium’s research.

“The combined clinical and research expertise of Penn State faculty from Hershey to State College and beyond will make this endeavor successful,” said Dr. Kevin Black, interim dean at the College of Medicine. “With teamwork and innovative ideas, we’ll be able to develop next-generation prevention therapies and interventions that can benefit aging citizens in our state, country and beyond.”

Read more about the consortium on Penn State News

If you're having trouble accessing this content, or would like it in another format, please email Penn State Health Marketing & Communications.