Hormone therapy reduces Alzheimer's risk for women if started early

In recent research presented at the annual meeting of the American Neurological Association in Baltimore, USA, findings indicated that women who commence hormone replacement therapy soon after menopause significantly reduce their risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The study highlighted that beginning hormone therapy within five years after the onset of menopause could lead to a reduction in Alzheimer's risk by 22% to 32%. The primary researcher, Dr. FNU Vaibhav, emphasized that the precise timing of hormone therapy is crucial for its effectiveness in protecting brain health. Researchers observed that late commencement of hormone therapy, particularly at age 65 or beyond, could increase the risk of Alzheimer’s by 38%. Notably, the risks are pronounced when hormone therapy includes progestin, underscoring the complexities associated with different formulations. This analysis is the first to consolidate and compare data from over 50 previous studies, offering a clearer perspective on the link between hormone therapy, menopause, and Alzheimer's disease. Dr. Vaibhav likened the timing of hormone therapy to watering a plant; it can yield positive results when the plant is in growth, but could exacerbate problems if applied to an already struggling condition. As estrogen levels decline due to menopause, hormone therapy not only alleviates symptoms such as hot flashes and sleep disturbances but may also confer protective benefits for heart health and bone strength. However, the study suggests that once Alzheimer's symptoms emerge, initiating hormone therapy is unlikely to have a beneficial effect and may potentially fuel the disease's progression. The findings call for women undergoing menopause to consider discussing the timing of hormone therapy with their healthcare providers, emphasizing that timely intervention may not only assist with menopausal symptoms but also serve a preventive role against Alzheimer's in the long run.