THE severity of menopausal symptoms may offer early insight into a woman’s risk of cognitive decline and behavioural changes later in life, according to a new study from the CAN-PROTECT research platform.
Analysing data from 896 postmenopausal women, researchers found that a higher burden of recalled perimenopausal symptoms was significantly associated with poorer everyday cognitive performance and more symptoms of mild behavioural impairment (MBI), a known risk factor for dementia. Cognitive function was assessed using the ECog-II Scale, while MBI symptoms were measured with the MBI Checklist.
Statistical models adjusted for variables including age, education, hormone therapy (HT) use, and type of menopause. Women who experienced more severe menopausal symptoms scored higher on both cognitive and behavioural impairment scales. Notably, hormone therapy did not significantly improve cognitive outcomes, but was associated with significantly lower MBI scores, suggesting a possible protective effect against behavioural changes linked to dementia risk.
“These findings suggest that menopause isn’t just a reproductive milestone, it may also be a window into future brain health,” the authors noted. “Understanding symptom burden may help clinicians identify individuals at higher risk of neuropsychiatric complications later in life.”
While further longitudinal research is needed, the study supports the inclusion of menopausal history in assessments of cognitive and mental health risk in aging women.
Aleksandra Zurowska, EMJ
Reference
Crockford JFE et al. Menopausal symptom burden as a predictor of mid- to late-life cognitive function and mild behavioral impairment symptoms: A CAN-PROTECT study. PLoS ONE. 2025;20(3): e0301165.
