A recent study found hHormone replacement therapy (HRT), which was once associated with the concerns regarding dementia, may protect brain health when started at the correct time.
The research adds to an increasing evidence that the timing of hormone therapy could play a crucial role for postmenopausal women.
Study suggested there may be a “window of opportunity” during which restoring estrogen levels can support the aging brain.
However, beginning treatment much later in life may provide less advantage and could pose negative impacts in your life.
The research challenged earlier fears surrounding HRT, which became widespread after previous studies raised concerns about its possible association with dementia and other health risks.
The latest study is assessing how factors such as age, timing, hormone formulation and individual health may influence the treatment’s effects.
Neuroscientist Roberta Brinton of the University of Arizona stated, "Early intervention promotes and sustains brain health, and postmenopausal intervention does not."
While suggesting that beginning hormone therapy after menopause may not offer the same protection.
Dr. Howard Hodis of the University of Southern California, who has studied hormone therapy in postmenopausal women for decades, similarly argues that the evidence increasingly points toward a timing effect: starting earlier may be beneficial, while starting later may have little effect or potentially cause harm.
Dr. Howard Hodis of the University of Southern California, who has studied hormone therapy in postmenopausal women for decades, stated, "When you take all these data, they substantially point in one direction."
That is, early: good; late: maybe no effect, and maybe harmful," he added.
Although the findings are encouraging, experts stress that HRT is not suitable for everyone and should not be viewed as a universal dementia-prevention treatment. Women considering hormone therapy should discuss its potential benefits and risks with a qualified healthcare professional.
