Robert J. Brent is Professor of Economics Emeritus at Fordham University in New York. His work focuses on cost-benefit analysis and its use in understanding difficult questions in healthcare and public policy. 

Much of his recent research examines dementia interventions through an economic lens. Using large-scale NACC data, he studies whether medical and non-medical interventions produce benefits that justify their costs. 

Through his books and published research, Brent aims to give researchers, healthcare professionals, economists, and policymakers clearer evidence for deciding which interventions deserve attention and public resources.