Women’s health issue could increase dementia risk

Menopause is a natural phase of a woman’s life that can bring about a variety of symptoms, with an estimated 80% of women experiencing some form of these symptoms. A recent study conducted by the University of Calgary found that the severity of menopausal symptoms may be linked to an increased risk of developing dementia later in life. The study, published in the journal PLOS One, analyzed data from 896 postmenopausal women who participated in the CAN-PROTECT study.

The researchers found that women who reported more severe menopausal symptoms also had higher scores on cognitive tests measuring everyday cognition and mild behavioral impairment. This suggests that there may be a connection between the burden of menopausal symptoms and cognitive decline. While hormone therapy did not show a significant association with cognitive function, it was linked to fewer symptoms of mild behavioral impairment.

Dr. Zahinoor Ismail, the lead author of the study, highlighted the importance of considering not only cognitive changes but also mood, social interaction, and personality changes that may occur following menopause. He emphasized the need for further research into the potential role of hormone therapy in promoting long-term brain health.

Board-certified family medicine physician, Alexa Fiffick, noted that previous data has shown a correlation between higher symptom burden and decreased cognitive function, even when hot flashes are not perceived by the woman. It is believed that vasomotor symptoms may be associated with changes in the brain that resemble vascular dementia.

While the study provided valuable insights into the relationship between menopausal symptoms and cognitive health, there were some limitations. The cross-sectional nature of the study means that it captured a snapshot in time and cannot determine causality. Future research should follow participants over time and incorporate biological data to better understand the long-term impact of menopause on dementia risk.

Overall, the study underscores the importance of recognizing menopause as a neurological shift in addition to a hormonal one. Women experiencing symptoms such as brain fog, memory lapses, and mood changes should not be dismissed, as these may be indicators of underlying cognitive changes. By addressing menopausal symptoms and exploring potential treatments like hormone therapy, women may be able to support their brain health as they age.