Menopause linked to Alzheimer's-like brain changes in UK study

A large UK study found menopause is linked to loss of grey matter in brain areas tied to memory and emotion. The analysis of nearly 125,000 women (about 11,000 with MRI scans) reported that hormone replacement therapy did not appear to prevent the loss.

A large UK study reports that the menopause is linked to changes in the brain that resemble those seen in Alzheimer's disease. Researchers observed loss of grey matter in areas involved in memory and emotion. The analysis drew on nearly 125,000 women, of whom about 11,000 had MRI brain scans. The results were published in the journal Psychological Medicine and researchers said the findings might partly explain why women generally have higher dementia rates. Key findings: - The study linked menopause to brain changes similar to those seen in Alzheimer's. - Loss of grey matter was reported in regions tied to memory and emotion. - The sample included nearly 125,000 women, with around 11,000 undergoing MRI scans. - Reported use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) did not appear to prevent the grey matter loss. Summary: The study suggests a possible biological connection between menopause and brain changes associated with Alzheimer's, which researchers say might partly explain sex differences in dementia risk. Further research and details on clinical implications were not outlined in the report. Undetermined at this time.