The RUSH Minority Aging Research Study (MARS), the longest running African American study focused on aging in the country, will commemorate its 20th anniversary on September 12, 2024. The Legacy Luncheon, to honor and celebrate study participants, will be hosted at the Hilton Chicago in Oak Lawn, Illinois.
While attending the luncheon, study participants will have the opportunity to socialize with members of the MARS team as well as fellow participants who have also chosen to devote their time and efforts towards helping advance minority age-related research. The event program will include a panel discussion on the impact of MARS in aging research, fun activities, a raffle, and a recognition ceremony highlighting participants who have reached significant milestones such as longest participating, first participant, and most home visits for testing. Attendees will also hear about research updates and “Things Learned” from the MARS study.
MARS enrolled its first participant in 2004, and within a year, had grown to over 200 participants. In 2024, MARS now has over 850 participants. Funded by the National Institutes of Health, MARS is one of the largest community-based studies in the country aimed at trying to understand and prevent dementia – very few of which focus exclusively on diverse communities. All participants of MARS are African American men and women, age 65 and older, who haven’t been diagnosed with dementia prior to enrollment. As a part of the study, participants undergo annual interviews, cognitive testing, and physical examinations.
Lisa L. Barnes, PhD, Principal Investigator of the Minority Aging Research Study, wants to show appreciation and celebrate participants dedicated to the study, some since it first began. Their commitment has directly contributed to scientific advancements in aging research. “We have inspired a new generation of young scientists who want to understand how older African Americans age with grace, and many of them have written research reports using MARS data, helping to launch their careers in science,” Barnes said. In her personal message to MARS participants, Barnes wrote: “Without each of you letting us into your home every year, answering
our calls, giving your time, and telling your friends and family how much you enjoy working with us, we would not be here today. We exist because of you.” Dr. Barnes is the Alla V. and Solomon Jesmer Professor of Gerontology and Geriatric Medicine and a cognitive neuropsychologist within the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center (RADC) at Rush University Medical Center. She is also an Associate Director of the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.
In addition to MARS, participants from two other RADC studies are also invited to attend the luncheon, the African American Clinical Core (for which Barnes is also the PI) and the Rush Memory and Aging Project, led by Dr. David Bennett, Director of the RADC.
MARS Study Coordinator Shayla Calloway said the contributions of these extraordinary individuals goes beyond advancing scientific knowledge, they are paving the way for improved health outcomes for future generations. “This milestone is not just a reflection of the research we have conducted; it is a testament to the trust and commitment [our participants] have shown,” Calloway said. “Together, we have fostered a community of learning and understanding that extends beyond the scope of our study.”
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