Welcome to our research initiative on International Labor Migration, Armed Conflict, and Alzheimer's Disease in Nepal. As Nepal's population ages, the country faces a rising number of adults at risk of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (ADRD). This study seeks to address a significant gap in research by investigating the potential impact of exposure to armed conflict, labor migration, and genetic-environmental interactions on ADRD risk in Nepal. Through rigorous data collection and analysis, we aim to guide the development of strategies to prevent and reduce the burden of ADRD in aging populations.
Our project, the Chitwan Valley Family Study on Cognition and Aging in Nepal (CVFS-SCAN), is designed to explore how aging impacts the health and cognition of older adults in Nepal. With a focus on ADRD, we aim to understand the prevalence, risk factors, and long-term effects of international labor migration and armed conflict on dementia and other age-associated conditions. By engaging over 4,000 adults aged 50 and older and their caregivers, our study aims to shed light on critical health issues facing the elderly in Nepal.
With an aging population, Nepal needs to be prepared for the growing health challenges that accompany it. Understanding the factors that contribute to ADRD will allow us to develop prevention strategies and policies that reduce the burden of dementia on individuals, families, and communities. Our research will not only help Nepal but also provide valuable insights for other low-resource countries facing similar issues.