Kenya Study Finds Poverty and Cancer Diagnosis Both Shape Brain Ageing, with Cancer Patients Showing Greater Resilience than Caregivers

AllAfrica reported that poverty may exert a greater influence on healthy brain ageing than a cancer diagnosis, according to findings from a three-year study conducted by the Aga Khan University Brain and Mind Institute. The Brain Resilience Kenya study tracked 404 Kenyan adults aged 35 and above.

Researchers combined brain imaging, cognitive assessments, blood-based biomarkers and community engagement to examine how biological, psychological, social and environmental factors affect ageing and the risks of frailty and dementia.

Results showed that lifelong experiences including childhood conditions, education, cardiovascular health, social support and economic wellbeing play a significant role in later-life brain health. Participants diagnosed with cancer demonstrated greater brain resilience than their caregivers.

The findings were presented at a community dissemination workshop and health fair supported by Dartmouth University.

Professor Zul Merali, founding director of the Brain and Mind Institute, said resilience can be nurtured by families, strengthened by communities, supported by health systems and encouraged through public policy. Professor Mansoor Saleh, co-principal investigator and director of the Cancer Centre at Aga Khan University Hospital, said cancer care should address overall wellbeing through heart health, mental wellbeing and strong social support.

Co-principal investigator Dr.

Karen Blackmon said combining advanced imaging with participants' lived experiences gave a fuller picture of how resilience develops. Researchers concluded that investments in nutrition, education, cardiovascular health, supportive relationships and safer communities could help maintain cognitive health as people age.