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New research published in the online issue of Neurology suggests that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may be more prone to memory and thinking problems in middle age. While the study does not establish a causal relationship between PCOS and cognitive decline, it highlights a significant association.
PCOS is a hormonal disorder characterized by irregular menstruation and elevated levels of the hormone Androgen. Additional symptoms include excess hair growth, acne, infertility, and poor metabolic health. Affecting up to 10% of women, PCOS has previously been linked to metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes, which can contribute to heart problems. However, the impact of PCOS on brain health has been less explored.
Heather G. Huddleston from the University of California, San Francisco, notes, “Our results suggest that people with this condition have lower memory and thinking skills and subtle brain changes at midlife. This could impact a person on many levels, including quality of life, career success, and financial security.”
The study involved 907 female participants aged 18 to 30 at the study’s commencement, with a 30-year follow-up period. Participants underwent tests measuring memory, verbal abilities, processing speed, and attention. At the time of testing, 66 participants had PCOS, and their average scores were approximately 11% lower compared to those without the condition.
Moreover, the PCOS group exhibited lower scores on three of the five tests, specifically in the areas of memory, attention, and verbal abilities. Brain scans conducted at years 25 and 30 of the study on a subset of 291 participants revealed that 25 with PCOS had lower white matter integrity, potentially indicating early evidence of brain aging.
While the study provides crucial insights, Huddleston emphasizes the need for additional research to confirm these findings and understand the mechanisms at play. She suggests exploring lifestyle changes, such as incorporating more cardiovascular exercise and improving mental health, as potential ways to mitigate the risk of thinking and memory problems associated with PCOS. As research advances, addressing the potential impact of PCOS on cognitive health becomes an essential aspect of overall well-being for affected women.
