Mounting evidence suggests that dietary caffeine intake may exert some beneficial effects in reducing dementia risk and possibly Alzheimer’s disease, and may be a viable therapeutic approach. Clinical studies also suggest that caffeine is a cognitive normalizer and not a cognitive enhancer. Moreover, some clinical studies suggest the neuroprotective effect of caffeine might be confounded by gender. Furthermore, not only is there limited research of consumption from a range of caffeine products which are available in the Irish market, there is no study to date that gives a comprehensive estimation for caffeine consumption habits in the Irish population. The aim of the proposed research is to survey caffeine habits (baseline, retrospective, and prospective) of adults and elderly of both sexes in Ireland and determine the influence of these habits on cognition and dementia risk. This study intends to strengthen this link by minimizing the potential bias and considering confounding factors that are inherent to all epidemiological studies (e.g. age, sex, education, socioeconomic status, BMI, diabetes, hypertension and other disease conditions, diet, physical activity, smoking, and alcohol consumption).
Not funded - part of Master degree
What is this study about?
This study will observe the caffeine consumption habits of the Irish population and whether changing caffeine consumption can affect cognition and dementia risk. This information can help us to develop new therapeutics for Alzheimer’s Disease.
Who are we looking for?
Any adult living in Ireland can take part. Even if you don’t drink coffee, you can still take part.
What’s involved?
You will be asked to complete an anonymous online survey about your consumption of caffeine products: tea, coffee, coke, energy drinks, etc. The survey can be accessed here: https://psychologygalway.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0iF1MzbCC9T7P82
Where will the research take place?
The survey is entirely online and will take approximately 20 minutes to complete.
To participate in this study, you must fulfil the following criteria:
- Be over 18 years of age
- Be based in Ireland
- Be able and willing to complete the informed consent process
- Have sufficient English language and motor control to complete the surveys and testing
If you would like further information about the study, please contact:
Aoife Troy, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Human Biology Building, School of Medicine, University of Galway. Email: a.troy3@universityofgalway.ie