Iliana Lourida

The world population is rapidly ageing and age-related diseases including Alzheimer’s disease and dementia are also expected to rise. It is estimated that by 2030, the number of people with dementia globally will be at least 65 million. Funded by PenCLAHRC, I am doing a PhD studying risk factors associated with cognitive decline and dementia. I am interested in lifestyle factors and metabolic dysfunction as potential targets for prevention strategies. My research focus is on associations with Mediterranean diet, and metabolic dysfunction particularly the role of parathyroid hormone and vitamin D in cognitive decline and dementia. Currently I am working towards prospective data analyses directed by the results of two systematic reviews I conducted as part of my PhD.

My background is in psychology. After finishing my psychology degree, I obtained a MSc in Health Psychology followed by training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). My previous work includes research in attitudes towards healthy lifestyle, job stress, mental health and sleep quality, and CBT interventions for carers of people with dementia.