🧠Exciting new research has uncovered a potential reason why women are more prone to dementia than men. According to a study involving over 100,000 women, menopause might be linked to a loss of brain grey matter, which is crucial for mental functions, memory, emotions, and movement.
Conducted by experts from the University of Cambridge, the research examined the effects of menopause on the brain and the potential role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in preventing cognitive decline. The findings show that menopause-related grey matter reductions occur in brain areas often impacted by Alzheimer’s, possibly making women more vulnerable to dementia later in life.
Interestingly, women who had gone through menopause reported tiredness and insomnia more frequently, regardless of whether they were on HRT or not. Those on HRT did, however, seem to have slower cognitive ageing, with faster reaction times than their non-HRT counterparts.
While the connection between menopause and dementia isn’t fully understood yet, the study highlights how lifestyle choices—like regular exercise, not smoking, and reducing alcohol—can help reduce the risk.
Dr Katharina Zuhlsdorff explains that menopause accelerates the natural ageing process of slowing reaction times, but HRT seems to slow this down. Professor Barbara Sahakian pointed out that brain regions affected during menopause are typically those impacted by Alzheimer’s, hinting at a potential vulnerability.
Michelle Dyson from the Alzheimer’s Society noted that two-thirds of people living with Alzheimer’s in the UK are women, possibly due to hormonal factors. While the research adds valuable insights into menopause and brain health, further long-term studies are needed to confirm these findings.
For those concerned about dementia, the Alzheimer’s Society offers a symptoms checklist as a helpful resource. Stay proactive about your health and consult a GP if you have concerns. 🌟#BrainHealth #MenopauseMatters #DementiaResearch