Summary
A study from the UK found that menopause is linked to brain changes similar to those seen in Alzheimer's disease. The research showed a loss of grey matter in brain areas related to memory and emotion, which could partly explain why women have a higher risk of dementia compared to men.
Key Facts
- The study involved nearly 125,000 women, with 11,000 undergoing MRI brain scans.
- Researchers found a loss of grey matter in brain areas associated with memory and emotion during menopause.
- Menopause may help explain why dementia is almost twice as common in women than in men.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) did not prevent grey matter loss in the study participants.
- Key brain areas affected include the hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, and anterior cingulate cortex.
- The study suggests a connection between menopause and increased vulnerability for dementia.
- Additional factors like exercise and lifestyle can help reduce dementia risk.
- Women account for about two-thirds of Alzheimer's cases in the UK, though the exact reasons are unclear.
