Can you describe the research you’re working on as part of TIME-AD?

Broadly, my research focuses on healthcare quality and dementia epidemiology, using causal inference methods (including natural experiments) and machine learning. Within TIME-AD, I’m examining how hypothetical interventions to reduce loneliness might affect memory function among middle-aged and older adults.

What inspired you to get involved in ADRD research?

As a practicing physician in Japan, I saw many people living with dementia. Witnessing how the condition affected not only their daily lives but also their families shaped my interest in understanding the disease better and motivated me to contribute to the development of more effective prevention and care strategies.

If you could change one thing about how research is done or communicated, what would it be?

I sometimes wonder how public health research would change if author lists were alphabetical (I’d end up somewhere in the middle most of the time). It might help create a more collaborative environment and ease some of the pressure surrounding authorship order.

What’s a fun fact about you that most people don’t know?

My family name is extremely rare. I’ve never met anyone with the same family name outside of my relatives. If you ever come across someone with it, please let me know!

What’s a book, podcast, or movie you’ve loved recently?

Random Acts of Medicine: The Hidden Forces That Sway Doctors, Impact Patients, and Shape Our Health by Anupam B. Jena and Christopher Worsham