Menopause, marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years, is a natural phase that brings both physical and mental changes. While it is a normal biological transition, understanding menopause can help women navigate this period with confidence.
A recent study suggests that severe menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes and depression, could negatively impact cognitive function in postmenopausal women. With over 24 million people worldwide living with dementia, and 4.6 million new cases diagnosed annually, the risk of cognitive decline is significant. By 2040, the number of dementia cases is expected to double, reaching 81.1 million globally.
The study, involving nearly 1,300 late-postmenopausal women from nine Latin American countries, found a correlation between severe menopause symptoms and cognitive impairment. Researchers are exploring whether treating symptoms like hot flashes with hormone therapy could potentially improve cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and executive function, though this remains uncertain.
Published in the journal Menopause, the study highlights that cognitive health is influenced by a mix of hormonal, lifestyle, and sociodemographic factors. Dr. Stephanie Faubion from The Menopause Society noted the potential protective effects of a lower body mass index, higher education levels, physical exercise, hormone therapy, and sexual activity on cognitive function.
Medical experts believe that up to 40% of Alzheimer’s disease cases could be prevented or delayed, increasing interest in identifying risk factors, including the role of estradiol in cognitive aging. As menopause involves a decline in estrogen, postmenopausal women may be at a higher risk for dementia.
