Women using HRT at lower risk of dementia, study suggests
Summary
A large UK study found that postmenopausal women who used hormone replacement therapy (HRT) had a lower risk of developing dementia, especially Alzheimer’s disease. Women who had surgical menopause and used HRT showed the greatest reduction in dementia risk.Key Facts
- The study tracked over 180,000 postmenopausal women in the UK for an average of 13 years.
- Women who used HRT were 10% less likely to develop any dementia and 16% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s compared to those who never used it.
- Women who had surgical menopause and used HRT had a 26% lower risk of developing dementia.
- Women with shorter natural estrogen exposure, such as early menopause, seemed to benefit more from HRT.
- Women carrying the Apoe4 gene variant, linked to higher Alzheimer’s risk, showed stronger protective effects from HRT.
- The study is observational, so it cannot prove that HRT directly prevents dementia.
- Researchers said more studies are needed to confirm these findings and understand which HRT types may help.
- People considering HRT should talk with their doctor about potential benefits and risks.
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