A major new study led by former PhD student Akinkunle Oye-Somefun has been published in the international peer鈥憆eviewed journal PLOS ONE, drawing widespread media attention, including coverage by .
The work of the 91亚色 alum was also quoted in Natural News this April as , and also featured in YFile, and .
The article, 鈥淭he Relationships Between Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, Sleep, and Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cohort Studies,鈥 was published on April 8, 2026. The study synthesizes evidence from longitudinal cohort studies to examine how movement-related behaviours鈥攑hysical activity, sedentary time, and sleep鈥攁re associated with dementia risk.
This work formed a central component of Oye-Somefun鈥檚 doctoral dissertation and reflects a large, collaborative research effort. In addition to Oye-Somefun as lead author, the research team included current PhD student Parmis Mirzadeh and former Master鈥檚 student Jenny Gao-Kang, along with faculty collaborators Michael Rotondi, Jennifer L. Kuk, Hala Tamim, and Chris I. Ardern.
The study鈥檚 findings contribute to the growing body of research emphasizing the importance of balanced daily movement behaviours across the lifespan, particularly as populations age and dementia prevalence continues to rise worldwide.
Following publication, the research attracted national and international media interest. Oye-Somefun was interviewed by NBC News, and the study was subsequently covered by multiple news outlets, underscoring the public health relevance of the findings and the growing recognition of student-led research excellence.
鈥淭his work highlights the strength and impact of doctoral research when supported by interdisciplinary collaboration and mentorship,鈥 said Dr. Chris I. Ardern, senior author and faculty supervisor. 鈥淎kinkunle鈥檚 leadership on this project demonstrates how rigorous evidence synthesis can inform both scientific understanding and public discourse.鈥
Publication Details
- Journal: PLOS ONE
- Publication date: April 8, 2026
- DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0343621
About the Research Team
The research was conducted by a multidisciplinary team of trainees and faculty with expertise in epidemiology, movement behaviour research, and public health, including graduate students and faculty members affiliated with KAHS.