The Study’s Revelation
A recent University of California study has uncovered a significant link between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and cognitive challenges in middle age.
Prevalence and Characteristics of PCOS
PCOS affects up to three million women in Britain, leading to irregular periods, heightened testosterone levels, and infertility. This common condition is also associated with obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart problems.
Impact on Cognitive Functions
The study, involving approximately 900 women aged 50 to 60, revealed that women with PCOS experienced issues with memory, attention, and verbal skills compared to those without the syndrome. Brain scans further indicated poorer connections between brain cells in women with PCOS.
Dr. Heather Huddleston’s Insights
Dr. Heather Huddleston, a researcher at UC San Francisco and the study’s author, emphasized the potential implications of PCOS on cognitive functions, including lower memory and thinking skills, along with subtle brain changes at midlife. However, she acknowledged the necessity for further research to validate these findings.
