What the Study Reveals: Increased Risk of Dementia and Alzheimer's with Hormone Replacement Therapy


The Potential Link between Hormone Replacement Therapy and Dementia Risk

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A new study published in The British Medical Journal suggests that menopausal women who undergo hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may face an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The study examined the medical records of several tens of thousands of Danish women between the ages of 50 and 60 who had no history of dementia and had no medical reason to avoid HRT. The findings revealed that women receiving estrogen-progestin therapy had a 24% higher risk of dementia and Alzheimer's, even those who started treatment at the age of 55 or younger. The risk was further amplified among women on long-term therapy, with rates of increased risk reaching almost 75% for those on HRT for more than 12 years. Interestingly, the study did not find an association between progestin-only therapy or vaginal estrogen therapy and the development of dementia.

While the findings are significant, it is important to note that they shouldn't necessarily prompt immediate changes in patients' and doctors' decision-making regarding HRT. Experts, including a neuroradiologist from the Mayo Clinic and an epidemiologist from Harvard Medical School, emphasized the need for further research to explore the possible link between HRT and dementia more comprehensively. They also urged

The Importance of Informed Decision-Making: Considering Hormone Replacement Therapy and Dementia Risk


A recent major study published in The British Medical Journal has shed light on a potential link between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease among menopausal women. The study analyzed the medical records of tens of thousands of Danish women aged between 50 and 60 who did not have a history of dementia and were not advised against using HRT. Surprisingly, the findings revealed that women who received estrogen-progestin therapy were 24% more likely to develop dementia and Alzheimer's, irrespective of whether they began treatment at the age of 55 or younger.

Interestingly, the risk of dementia was even higher in the case of long-term users of hormone replacement therapy. Women who had been on HRT for more than 12 years faced a nearly 75% increased risk. It is important to note that no association was found between progestin-only therapy or vaginal estrogen therapy and the development of dementia. However, the study's authors caution that more research is required to ascertain whether hormone replacement therapy is directly responsible for the increased risk or if there are other underlying factors at play.

Nevertheless, experts have advised against making immediate changes to hormone therapy based solely on these findings. A neuroradiologist from the Mayo Clinic and an epidemiologist from Harvard Medical School have both emphasized the need for further comprehensive research to better understand the relationship between HRT and dementia. Previous studies have yielded conflicting results regarding the risks and benefits of hormone therapy, particularly concerning cognitive functioning and dementia.

Dr. Stephanie Faubion, the director of the Mayo Clinic Center for Women's Health,


The recent study published in The British Medical Journal has raised concerns about a potential link between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease in menopausal women. The findings suggest that women receiving estrogen-progestin therapy may face a 24% higher risk of developing these cognitive disorders, even when initiating treatment at a younger age. The risk further rises for long-term users, with rates of increased risk reaching almost 75% for those on HRT for over 12 years. However, it is important to note that the study did not find a similar association with progestin-only therapy or vaginal estrogen therapy.

Experts caution against making immediate changes to HRT based solely on these findings. They stress the need for further research to comprehensively explore the potential link between HRT and dementia. Conflicting results from previous studies highlight the complexity of this issue and the necessity for a more conclusive understanding.

As more information becomes available, it is crucial for healthcare professionals to carefully evaluate the risks and benefits of HRT for each individual patient. Open communication between doctors and patients is essential in making informed decisions regarding hormone therapy. Future studies examining brain imaging and other markers may provide deeper insights into the effects, if any, of HRT on cognitive health.

In the meantime, women considering or undergoing HRT should consult with their healthcare providers to discuss the potential implications and individualize their treatment plans accordingly. Ongoing research will continue to shape guidelines and recommendations in the field of hormone therapy, ensuring the best possible care for menopausal women while considering their cognitive health.


Originally Published at: https://fortune.com/well/2023/06/28/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt-may-increase-dementia-alzheimers-risk-menopause/
Business Topic: Health