THEMenopause is not just the end of the reproductive cycle, but a biological event that profoundly transforms the nervous system. A massive British study conducted byUniversity of Cambridge and published on Psychological Medicine has shed new light on the link between declining estrogen and brain health. Research that would explain why women are statistically more susceptible to dementia and Alzheimer’s than men.
The study: what happens to the “gray matter”
The researchers analyzed data from almost 125,000 womenof which 11,000 underwent MRI. The results show that after menopause a significant loss of gray matter in areas of the brain vital for memory, emotion and movement. The areas most affected are the same ones that are usually attacked by Alzheimer’s disease, i.e the hippocampusfundamental for learning and memory, the entorhinal cortexessential for spatial navigation and the formation of memories, and the anterior cingulate cortex, which regulates attention and emotions.
There professor Barbara Sahakiansenior author of the study, explained: «The brain regions where we saw these differences are the ones that tend to be affected by Alzheimer’s. Menopause could make these women vulnerable over time. While it’s not the only cause, it may help explain why we see almost double the cases of dementia in women compared to men».
Menopause and Alzheimer’s: the role of Hormone Replacement Therapy
The study also examined the impact of Hormone Replacement Therapy (TOS). While you don’t seem to directly oppose it loss of gray matter volume, the therapy has shown benefits on other fronts. In particular, it was found to be effective in slow the decline in reaction timeswhich physiologically tend to worsen with age.
«Menopause seems to accelerate this slowing down process, but the Hormone therapy seems to “put on the brakes,” slightly slowing down the aging process», said the co-author Katharina Zühlsdorff.
Beyond biology: the importance of lifestyle
Despite the structural changes in the brain, science reiterates that fate is not sealed. The doctor Christelle Langley underlined that the transition towards post-menopause requires a new focus on global health: «A healthy lifestyle – exercise, stay active and eat a balanced diet – is particularly important during this time to help mitigate some of the effects.” Also Michelle Dysondirector ofAlzheimer’s Societyagrees: “There are steps women can take today to reduce their risk of dementia: regular exercise, not smoking and reducing alcohol consumption.”
Menopause and Alzheimer’s: the importance of prevention
Research has confirmed that post-menopausal women are more likely to suffer from insomnia, anxiety and depression. Recognizing these signs is essential: «We should all be more sensitive not only to physical health, but also to mental health of women during menopause,” concluded Langley. “There should be no embarrassment in letting others know what you are going through and asking for help.”
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