Authors: Udeh-Momoh CT, Aliwa B, Atwoli L, Blackmon K, Bosire E, Gitau S, Kaleli H, Kamanda C, Khakali L, Maina R, Mativo P, Mbugua S, Merali Z, Muchungi K, Njogu N, Nyankira D, Okech V, Ondieki A, Onyancha C, Onyango SO, Shah J, Shah S, Smith C, Sokhi D, Waa S, Gregory S, Hill-Jarrett TG, Kafetsouli D, Mielke MM, Muniz-Terrera G, Solomon A, Thesen T, Tsoy E, Yasoda-Mohan A, Yokoyama JS, Watermeyer TJ.

Abstract: Dementia rates are rising globally, with the burden increasing most rapidly in low- to middle-income countries. Despite this, research into Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) among African populations remains limited, with existing models based on Western cohorts that overlook sex-, gender-, and ancestry-specific factors. The Female Brain Health and Endocrine Research in Africa (FemBER-Africa) project, hosted at the Brain and Mind Institute, Aga Khan University, Kenya, will establish a deeply phenotyped cohort of 250 African individuals across the ADRD spectrum. It will assess sex-specific risk factors linked to ethnicity, lifestyle, and endocrinological variables using fluid-based biomarkers (blood and saliva), neuroimaging (magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography), and culturally adapted cognitive tests. By comparing data with Western and diasporic cohorts, the study aims to identify ancestry-specific and shared mechanisms driving ADRD risk and progression. The findings will support targeted, culturally relevant prevention and intervention strategies, addressing the underrepresentation of African populations in global dementia research.