Iowa State BRAVA study looks at menopause and aging

Key Points:

• Iowa State University researchers have launched the BRAVA Study to investigate how menopause affects brain and vascular aging, aiming to improve understanding of women's long-term health risks related to cognitive diseases and stroke.
• The study will follow approximately 370 women aged 40 to 64 across premenopausal, perimenopausal, and early postmenopausal stages, including those without menstrual cycles due to hysterectomy.
• Participants will undergo various tests, including physical exercise assessments, to help identify behaviors or treatments that may reduce the risk of cerebrovascular disease and promote healthier brain aging.
• The research addresses a gap in brain-aging studies, which have historically focused on men, and seeks to provide women with actionable insights to better manage menopause-related health changes.
• Enrollment is ongoing, and participants will receive a comprehensive 13-page health report; interested individuals can contact the research team via brava@iastate.edu.