Does manipulation of arterial shear stress enhance cerebrovascular function and cognition in the aging brain? Design, rationale and recruitment for the Preventia randomised clinical trial

Abstract

Background: Cognitive and cerebrovascular declines are potentially life-changing conditions which are associated with a substantial healthcare burden worldwide. While pharmacological approaches for the prevention of cognitive decline have been largely ineffective, exercise programs may be able to delay or prevent cognitive decline in those at risk. One putative mechanism for the beneficial impacts of exercise on brain health involves improvement in cerebrovascular function. Exercise positively affects arterial structure and function in peripheral arteries and microvessels, but the impacts on brain vascular function are largely unknown. Water immersion increases brain blood flow and shear str..