**Menopause Symptoms Linked to Increased Risk of Cognitive Decline**
A new study has found that women who experience a greater number of menopause symptoms may have a higher risk of cognitive and behavioral impairments later in life—both potential early indicators of dementia.
Conducted by researchers at the University of Calgary, the study analyzed data from 896 postmenopausal women, with an average age of 64.2 years. The findings, published in *PLOS One*, suggest that a higher burden of menopause symptoms—including hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances—is linked to poorer cognitive function and mild behavioral impairments in later years.
Participants’ cognitive and behavioral health was assessed using the ECog II, which measures daily cognitive function, and the MBI-C, a tool used to detect early signs of neurodegenerative disease. The results showed that those who reported more menopause-related symptoms were significantly more likely to exhibit cognitive decline and behavioral changes.
While prior research has linked specific menopause symptoms to cognitive issues, this study is the first to establish a connection between the overall burden of symptoms and cognitive decline. The researchers also suggest a dose-dependent relationship, meaning that the more severe the symptoms, the greater the impact on cognitive and behavioral health.
Experts believe estrogen-based hormone therapy, commonly used to manage menopause symptoms, may help mitigate these risks. However, they caution that more research is needed to determine whether menopause directly contributes to dementia or if other factors are at play.
Medical professionals stress the importance of recognizing menopause as a significant life stage that could influence long-term brain health. Early intervention and proper management of symptoms may play a key role in reducing the risk of cognitive decline in aging women.
