Dementia
- 30 Nov 2023
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Dementia
- Updated on 30 Nov 2023
- 1 Minute to read
- Print
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- The relationship between HRT and risk of dementia remains unclear, with studies reporting conflicting results.
- NICE says combined HRT might increase the risk of dementia if started over the age of 65 years. Oestrogen only HRT is unlikely to increase the risk of dementia.
- The BMS says women can be reassured that HRT is unlikely to increase the risk of dementia or to have a detrimental effect on cognitive function in women initiating HRT before the age of 65 years.
- HRT should not be initiated for the purpose of reducing the risk of dementia in women experiencing the menopause. National and international recommendations, do not support this.
Note:
- Some patients are concerned that they have dementia due to symptoms of brain fog. Menopause brain fog is a group of symptoms that happens around the time of perimenopause, including poor concentration, difficulties remembering words and numbers and forgetfulness. These symptoms are very common in the menopause transition and typically improve with time.
- For more information see patient information leaflet or assessment section.
References and Further Information:
- National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Guideline. Menopause (update). Draft for consultation, Nov 2023.
- Joint position statement by the British Menopause Society, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Society for Endocrinology on best practice recommendations for the care of women experiencing the menopause. Post Reproductive Health. 2022.
- Maki P and Jaff N. Brain fog in menopause: a health-care professional’s guide for decision making and counselling on cognition. Climacteric 2022.
- Hamoda H, Panay N, Pedder H et al. The British Menopause Society & Women’s Health Concern 2020 recommendations on hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women. Found on page 187. Post Reprod Health 2020.
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