The aim of the project is to increase the understanding of the role of education for cognitive ability and cognitive disease in later life, by examining how the interplay between genetic predispositions and educational attainment influences health inequalities. This is done by testing direct and indirect effects and selection mechanisms by assessing the interplay between genes and environment, the impact of early socioeconomic factors, and cohort differences.
Over the past century, higher education has become much more common in Sweden and is formally available to everyone. Still, significant socioeconomic disparities exist in Sweden, both in terms of education and cognitive aging. Overlooking our different abilities can lead to exacerbated inequalities. Genetic factors contributing to inequalities should not be understood as deterministic; instead, they emphasize the importance of supportive environments. A better understanding of modifiable factors underlying differences in cognitive aging is highly relevant for individuals, families, and society, as cognitive disease implies a loss for the individual as well as a social and economic burden.
The project is carried out by a research team with a background and extensive experience in genetic epidemiology, gerontology, sociology, and public health. Several genetic and population-based studies will be utilized, enabling both cross-sectional and longitudinal modeling of outcomes.