The Local Initiative For Excellence Brain Health Study, or L.I.F.E. Brain Health Study, is a long-term research study focused on understanding how brain health develops from early adulthood across the lifespan.

Adults ages 18–34 make up nearly one-quarter of the population and approximately one-third of the workforce in our region. Despite their importance to the future health, economy, and leadership of our communities, young adults have been underrepresented in long-term health research. The LIFE Brain Health Study is designed to help close that gap.

The study plans to enroll 10,000 adults ages 18–34 from Ohio, northeastern Kentucky, western West Virginia, and surrounding communities. At least 40% of participants are expected to come from rural, inner-city, and other underrepresented communities, helping ensure that the study reflects the diversity of the region.

Researchers will examine how physical and mental health, blood pressure, body weight, nutrition, sleep, stress, life experiences, substance use, environmental exposures, cognition, family history, and other factors may influence brain health over time. Study information will include questionnaires, health measurements, cognitive testing, blood samples, medical-record information, and monthly at-home blood-pressure readings. A subgroup of approximately 3,000 participants will also receive structural brain MRI scans.

Participants will receive brief follow-up calls every six months and return for more detailed in-person visits every two years. By following young adults over many years, the study aims to identify early risk and resilience factors, improve understanding of how brain-related conditions develop, and help guide future approaches to prevention and healthier aging.