Menopause Hormone Therapy Linked to Higher Dementia Risk, Study Shows

Women in their 50s who took estrogen and progestin hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms had an increased risk of dementia within 20 years, according to an observational study.
The study found that women who used dual hormone replacement had a 24% increased rate of dementia compared to those who had never been on HRT, and the risk increased with years spent on HRT.
Researchers examined the medical records of Danish women aged 50-60 without a history of dementia and found a 24% increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease among those who received estrogen-progestin therapy.
The study contradicts earlier research suggesting that HRT may protect against cognitive decline if started near menopause onset.
Further research is needed to determine the causal relationship between HRT and dementia, but in the meantime, lifestyle interventions are recommended as a first-line approach for menopausal symptoms.