A recent study published on March 5, 2025, in the open-access journal PLOS One reveals a concerning connection between the severity of menopausal symptoms and subsequent cognitive and behavioral decline. The research, conducted by Zahinoor Ismail from the University of Calgary and colleagues, analyzed data from 896 postmenopausal women and found that those who experienced more severe menopausal symptoms were more likely to exhibit poorer cognitive function and mild behavioral impairments later in life. These findings highlight the potential risk factors for dementia and suggest that addressing menopausal symptoms may be crucial in mitigating these risks.

The prevalence of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias is significantly higher among women, with a threefold greater risk compared to men. This disparity has led researchers to explore various factors that might contribute to this increased vulnerability. One proposed factor is the hormonal changes associated with menopause, particularly the loss of estradiol. To investigate this link, the study utilized data from the CAN-PROTECT project, which focuses on aging-related health issues. Participants in the study had an average age of 64.2 years, with menopause occurring around the age of 49.4 years on average.

Researchers assessed the burden of menopausal symptoms by tallying the number of reported perimenopausal symptoms, such as irregular periods, hot flashes, chills, vaginal dryness, weight gain, slowed metabolism, night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood changes, inattention, forgetfulness, and other unspecified symptoms. The analysis revealed that women who experienced a higher number of these symptoms showed greater cognitive impairment, as indicated by higher ECog-II total scores. Additionally, they exhibited more mild behavioral impairments, reflected in higher MBI-C total scores. Notably, hormone therapy did not significantly affect cognitive function but was associated with fewer behavioral symptoms.

The study underscores the importance of recognizing menopausal symptom burden as a potential indicator of future cognitive and behavioral changes. While further research is needed to establish causality and account for confounding factors, the findings suggest that early intervention and management of menopausal symptoms could play a vital role in reducing the risk of dementia. The authors emphasize the need for longitudinal studies to confirm these preliminary results and to explore the broader implications for women's health.

These findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between menopause and cognitive decline. By highlighting the significance of menopausal symptoms, the study opens avenues for preventive measures and interventions aimed at improving long-term cognitive and behavioral health in women. The research also points to the potential benefits of estrogen-based hormone therapy in managing behavioral symptoms, although its impact on cognitive function remains inconclusive. Future studies should aim to expand on these findings and refine our understanding of this critical health issue.