Breast Cancer Survivors May Face Lower Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease, New Study Finds

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open suggests that breast cancer survivors may have a slightly lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease compared to individuals without a history of cancer. The findings, based on a large-scale analysis of Korean National Health Insurance Service data, challenge previous concerns about the long-term cognitive health of cancer survivors.

Researchers followed over 70,000 breast cancer patients who underwent surgery between 2010 and 2016, comparing them with cancer-free individuals matched in a 1:3 ratio. Over a median follow-up period of 7.3 years, 1,229 cases of Alzheimer’s disease were identified among survivors, translating to an incidence rate of 2.45 per 1,000 person-years.

The study found that breast cancer survivors had a slightly reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease (subdistribution hazard ratio [sHR], 0.92) compared to controls, with the effect most pronounced in women aged 65 and older. Notably, the reduced risk was associated with receipt of radiation therapy (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.77). However, the lower risk did not persist beyond five years of survival, indicating the need for longer-term follow-up.

The authors emphasized that while these results are encouraging, further research is necessary to fully understand the long-term neurocognitive effects of cancer and its treatments. They noted that certain therapies, such as radiation, may play a role in reducing Alzheimer’s risk, but more studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore underlying mechanisms.

“Breast cancer survivors may have a slightly lower risk of AD compared with cancer-free individuals, potentially influenced by cancer treatments, underscoring the need for further research on long-term neurocognitive outcomes in this population,” the study authors concluded.

Disclaimer:
This article summarizes recent research findings and is intended for informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Individuals concerned about their risk for Alzheimer’s disease or the effects of cancer treatment should consult their healthcare provider.