Can Hormone Therapy Increase Alzheimer’s Risk? Here’s What a New Study Says
Summary: A new Mass General Brigham study suggests that women over 70 who took menopausal hormone therapy (HT) more than a decade ago may have faster tau protein buildup, a key marker of Alzheimer’s disease. The study found no major difference in amyloid beta accumulation, but it revealed that delayed HT use may accelerate tau buildup, particularly in older women. Researchers emphasise that timing matters, HT should ideally begin within 10 years of menopause to minimise risks.
Menopausal Hormone Therapy May Speed Up Alzheimer’s Risk
Menopausal hormone therapy (HT) is often prescribed to ease menopause symptoms, but could it also raise Alzheimer’s risk? A new study from Mass General Brigham suggests that women over 70 who took HT more than a decade ago may have faster accumulation of tau, a key marker of Alzheimer’s disease. These findings, published in Science Advances, could influence discussions between doctors and patients regarding the risks and benefits of HT.
Hormone Therapy (HT) and Tau Protein: The Connection
The study did not find a significant difference in the buildup of amyloid beta (another hallmark of Alzheimer’s), but it did reveal a faster accumulation of tau in certain brain regions among women who had taken HT, particularly those over 70.
“Approximately a quarter of currently postmenopausal women who are 70 years and older have a history of HT use and have now entered a critical age of risk for Alzheimer’s disease,” said Dr. Rachel F. Buckley, senior author from Massachusetts General Hospital
Findings of the Study
The research, led by Dr. Gillian T. Coughlan, analyzed brain scans of 146 women
- 73 who had used HT about 14 years prior
- 73 who had not used HT.
Participants ranged from 51 to 89 years old and underwent PET scans over several years to track amyloid beta and tau protein levels.
The key takeaway? Women who started HT at an older age showed faster tau accumulation, potentially increasing their risk of Alzheimer’s.
Timing Matters: When Should Hormone Therapy Start?
Current guidelines suggest that HT should begin within 10 years of menopause to avoid adverse effects. This study adds to existing concerns that delayed HT use may negatively impact brain health. However, researchers note they can’t definitively say whether age-related tau buildup is due to HT prescribing patterns or natural ageing.
“Our data indicate that HT may influence tau accumulation as a function of age, with implications for cognitive decline,” said Dr. Coughlan.
What This Means for You
If you’re considering or currently on hormone therapy, this research highlights the importance of discussing potential risks with your doctor, especially if you started HT later in life.
Takeaway: Should You Be Concerned?
The study reported that
- HT started earlier (within 10 years of menopause) may be safer for brain health.
- Older women who took HT over a decade ago may have an increased Alzheimer’s risk due to tau buildup.
- More research is needed, but these findings stress the need for informed decision-making regarding hormone therapy and cognitive health.
What are your thoughts on these findings? Let’s discuss in the comments!
Dane
I am an MBBS graduate and a dedicated medical writer with a strong passion for deep research and psychology. I enjoy breaking down complex medical topics into engaging, easy-to-understand content, aiming to educate and inspire readers by exploring the fascinating connection between health, science, and the human mind.
