CHICAGO, Illinois – Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has long been recognized for its physical symptoms, such as irregular periods and excessive body hair. However, recent research has uncovered a potential link between PCOS and cognitive dysfunction later in life.
A new study, published in the journal Neurology, followed 907 female participants with PCOS for 30 years. The study revealed that individuals with PCOS scored lower on memory, verbal abilities, attention, and processing speed tests compared to those without the condition. Dr. Pauline Maki, a Women’s Mental Health Research Program director at the University of Illinois Chicago, noted that PCOS affects approximately 8% to 13% of women of reproductive age worldwide, with many cases going undiagnosed.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Heather G. Huddleston from the University of California San Francisco, emphasized the potential impact of these findings on a person’s quality of life, career success, and financial security. The study also found that individuals with PCOS had poorer white matter in brain scans, indicating potential signs of accelerated brain aging.
While the study suggests a potential link between PCOS and cognitive decline, experts caution that the findings should be interpreted carefully. The study only showed an association between PCOS and cognitive decline and did not prove causation. Some experts also raised concerns about the study’s diagnostic criteria for PCOS.
In light of these findings, Dr. Katherine Sherif, a professor of medicine at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, underscored the importance of managing PCOS symptoms to protect brain health as individuals age. She emphasized the role of controlling diabetes, exercise, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels in maintaining brain health for individuals with PCOS. Additionally, she recommended addressing sleep quality and muscle strength, as well as discussing potential medications or supplements with a healthcare provider.
Ultimately, while the study provides valuable insights into the potential impact of PCOS on cognitive health, further research is needed to confirm the findings and explore the underlying mechanisms behind the observed link.