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Can weight loss help prevent Alzheimer's in adults with Down syndrome?

Plain-English translation of NCT05985486 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated March 2026 · Translation generated June 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This study is testing whether weight loss can help prevent Alzheimer's disease in adults with Down syndrome who don't currently have dementia. Half of the participants will follow a reduced-calorie diet with monthly counseling sessions, while the other half will attend general health education classes. Researchers will track changes in brain health, weight, and thinking abilities over one year.

Adults with Down syndrome are at higher risk for developing Alzheimer's disease as they age, and being overweight may increase this risk. This study wants to know if losing weight through healthier eating could be a way to prevent or delay this disease.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with Down syndrome
you are overweight (BMI between 25 and 50)
you can speak and communicate clearly
you live at home with a parent or guardian, or in a supported living setting where a caregiver can help with meals and transportation
you do not currently have dementia or Alzheimer's disease
you can visit the University of Kansas Medical Center three times over the year

You likely don't qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with dementia
you have insulin-dependent diabetes
you are currently taking GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic) or anti-amyloid medications
you have had a recent serious health event like a heart attack, stroke, or cancer
you have a pacemaker or other metal implants that would make an MRI unsafe

What participation looks like

If you're in the weight loss group, you'll follow a reduced-calorie diet and attend monthly counseling sessions online to discuss healthy eating. If you're in the control group, you'll attend monthly online classes about general health topics instead. Everyone will visit the University of Kansas Medical Center three times over 12 months for blood tests, brain scans (MRI), thinking and memory tests, and weight checks. Your caregiver will help you track your diet and weight using a simple app at home.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 7, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

United States

University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas