Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent reproductive disorder often associated with cardiovascular risk factors and self-esteem issues, impacting the overall health of affected women. However, the connection between PCOS and brain health remains unexplored.
A recent study featured in ‘Neurology’, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, suggests that women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome may face an increased likelihood of encountering memory issues and cognitive impairment as they age.
PCOS is the most common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age, affecting approximately 110 million women worldwide in various ways. This disorder is associated with lifelong conditions such as subfertility, type 2 diabetes, depression, or hypertension. However, its potential impact on accelerated cognitive aging represents a new concept.
“While it has been linked to metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes that can lead to heart problems, less is known about how this condition affects brain health. Our results suggest that people with this condition have lower memory and thinking skills and subtle brain changes at midlife. This could impact a person on many levels, including quality of life, career success and financial security”, said study author Heather G. Huddleston from the University of California.
The study engaged 907 female participants, initially aged between 18 and 30 years, who were tracked over 30 years. These participants underwent assessments for memory, verbal skills, attention, and processing speed. In the attention test, the 66 individuals diagnosed with PCOS scored, on average, 11% lower compared to those without the condition. Additionally, individuals with the syndrome demonstrated lower scores in memory and verbal skill measurements. Brain scans also showed that these individuals had poorer white matter conditions, which could be an indicator of brain aging.
Nevertheless, the study’s investigators emphasize that these findings should be approached with caution due to several limitations. Although the research suggested an association between PCOS and cognitive impairment, it fell short of establishing a causal relationship. Additionally, it is worth considering that genetics may also play a role in these connections.
Early prevention of PCOS and cognitive health
Despite the need for additional research to validate these findings, these outbreaks underscore the significance of early detection and vigilant monitoring of PCOS.
It’s important to prioritize your health by reaching out to a professional if you notice any symptoms related to PCOS or if you have any concerns about your well-being, regardless of whether you have been diagnosed. Regular check-ups and open communication with healthcare professionals are key to staying healthy and addressing any concerns at an early stage.
Taking a proactive approach to your health empowers you to make informed decisions and ensures that potential issues are dealt with promptly, promoting a happier and healthier life.
Spiomet4health: treating PCOS at its core
Currently, there is no treatment targeted at the cause of PCOS, but various medications aim to control symptoms without eliminating them at the root. In this context, the Spiomet4Health project is working towards the evaluate the first specific treatment for the cause of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in adolescents and young women. The clinical trial is taking place in Spain (Barcelona and Girona), Italy, Denmark, Turkey, Austria, and Norway. Specifically, it involves a daily tablet which, along with a healthy lifestyle, could normalize hormones and ovulation, thus reversing the alterations associated with PCOS.