No Clear Link Found Between HRT and Dementia Risk in Women

A major study has found no clear link between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and dementia risk in post-menopausal women. Published in The Lancet Healthy Longevity, the research analysed data from over 1 million participants across 10 previous studies. Experts say the findings support current medical advice against using HRT solely to prevent dementia. The study aimed to clarify whether HRT affects dementia risk, a question that has long puzzled researchers. Women are disproportionately affected by dementia, making up roughly two-thirds of all cases worldwide. In 2021 alone, around 57 million people globally were living with the condition. Factors like longer life expectancy, genetic predisposition, and the drop in oestrogen during menopause contribute to this higher risk.

HRT is commonly prescribed to ease menopause symptoms, including potential cognitive concerns. However, the new analysis found no evidence that it either increases or decreases dementia risk. Lead author Melissa Melville called for more high-quality, long-term research involving diverse groups of women to fill remaining gaps in understanding. G. Thomas Ruiz, MD, stressed the need for ongoing efforts to reduce dementia risk as women age. He pointed to brain exercises and mental stimulation as possible protective measures against Alzheimer’s disease. Meanwhile, Manisha Parulekar, MD, noted that the findings reinforce existing guidelines: HRT should not be used specifically to prevent dementia.

The study provides reassurance that HRT does not alter dementia risk in post-menopausal women. Doctors continue to recommend it for managing menopause symptoms rather than dementia prevention. Further research remains essential to explore other ways of reducing cognitive decline in ageing women.