Exaggerated Personality Traits clinical trials

Genetics and Epidemiology of Aging Associated Conditions in the Sardinian Population

Background: - The island of Sardinia, an Italian region, has a population that is highly interrelated. Researchers have developed the SardiNIA longitudinal study to examine the possible genetic factors that predispose individuals to diseases and to various inherited conditions. In the study, participants will be drawn from four towns in the Ogliastra region (Lanusei, Ilbono, Elini, and Arzana), and their DNA will be analyzed and compared with a long-term assessment of various health-related events. The SardiNIA study is designed to improve understanding of the genetic factors involved in age-associated diseases and disorders, and provide possible points of intervention that may help prevent diseases. Objectives: - To conduct a long-term study of genetics and epidemiology in a small and highly interrelated population. Eligibility: - Individuals at least 18 years of age (at least 14 years of age for Phase 1 of the study) who live in the province of Ogliastra in eastern Sardinia. Design: - This 10-year study will involve three phases: collecting initial blood samples and medical history (years 1 to 4), and two sets of follow-up visits to collect additional data (3 years apart). - Participants will provide detailed medical history and information for long-term study, primarily involving the following aspects: - Demographic/family and clinical variables (e.g., medications, fertility, hospitalizations and surgical procedures, age of relatives who are still alive, age and cause of death in deceased relatives) (Phase 1) - Complete physical examination, including measures of height and weight, blood pressure, and basic heart function (Phase 1) - Blood and urine samples (Phase 1) - Heart and lung function tests (Phase 1) - Assessment of general personality traits and possible history of depression (Phase 1) - Dietary assessment through a food frequency questionnaire (Phase 1) - Cognitive tests of attention, memory, and concentration (Phases 1 and 2) - Frailty-related tests (e.g., hand grip strength, walking speed, bone strength) (Phases 1 and 2) - Eye examination to test for evidence of disease or macular degeneration (Phases 1 and 2) - Kidney and thyroid ultrasound (Phases 1, 2, and 3)