Early Menopause Linked to Faster Alzheimer's Onset

A study published in JAMA Network Open on August 25 links early menopause to faster cognitive decline and an earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers found that women whose menopause began 10 years earlier experienced a 2% faster onset of Alzheimer’s and 15% higher white matter hyperintensity volume.

The study suggests that the loss of estrogen's protective effects on brain tissue contributes to structural brain aging, with surgical menopause showing more pronounced effects.