estrogen

How could bisphenol A raise depression risk? Study identifies six key molecular targets

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Researchers combined genetic epidemiology, transcriptomics, molecular docking, and mouse experiments to show how a common endocrine-disrupting chemical may influence biological pathways tied to major depressive disorder. Study: Bisphenol a exposure and major depressive disorder: an integrative analysis combining network toxicology, molecular docking, genetic epidemiology, and transcriptomic validation. Image Credit: monticello / Shutterstock A new study … Read more

Heart health linked to higher fracture risk in postmenopausal women

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Postmenopausal women face a high risk of bone fractures. Due to declines in estrogen levels, which can lead to an increased risk of osteoporosis, even a low-impact fall can result in a serious hip, back or wrist injury. An estimated 1 in 3 women over 50 will experience a fracture due to bone loss in … Read more

Menopause may raise women’s Alzheimer risk earlier than doctors once thought

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A new review suggests the menopause transition may mark a critical window for Alzheimer’s prevention in women, shifting focus toward earlier detection, sex-specific risk factors, and more personalized care. Expert Review: Women’s midlife: the front line of Alzheimer prevention. Image Credit: izzuanroslan / Shutterstock In a recent review published in The Journal of Clinical Investigation, author … Read more

Blood test marker p-tau217 helps detect early dementia risk in cognitively healthy older women

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A decades-long study of postmenopausal women shows that a simple blood biomarker may help identify individuals at higher risk of cognitive decline and dementia years before symptoms appear. Study: Plasma Phosphorylated Tau 217 and Incident Mild Cognitive Impairment and Dementia in Older Women. Image Credit: meeboonstudio / Shutterstock In a recent study published in JAMA Network … Read more

Social isolation and loneliness raise cognitive decline risk in perimenopausal women

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The relationship between social connections and cognitive abilities is a complex one, particularly during the perimenopausal period when women transition from the reproductive period to menopause. A new study suggests that loneliness and social isolation are not only independently associated with subjective cognitive decline during perimenopause but also exhibit a joint relationship. Results of the … Read more

Vaginal estrogen therapy is safe for young endometrial cancer survivors, study finds

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Despite the increased incidence of endometrial cancer in younger women, there is limited research regarding the safety of local, low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy (ET) for survivors. A new study suggests that this form of estrogen is not only effective in relieving numerous menopause symptoms but also does not seem to increase a woman’s risk of … Read more

Hormone fluctuations influence perceived effort during intense workouts

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Female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone fluctuate monthly across the menstrual cycle, affecting moods and energy levels. New research from the University of Oregon finds that those fluctuations don’t change a woman’s ability to exercise hard, but they do influence how difficult that work feels. The findings were published in the Journal of Applied Physiology. … Read more

Does motherhood influence brain aging? New research suggests a positive cognitive association

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New longitudinal evidence suggests reproductive history may shape women’s cognitive aging, offering insights into possible protective pathways while highlighting the need for cautious interpretation. Study: Pregnancy and breastfeeding are associated with less later-life cognitive decline in a longitudinal, prospective cohort. Image Credit: ibragimova / Shuttertock A recent study published in the journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia found … Read more

Estrogen levels in the brain may play a role in women’s risk of stress-related memory problems

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Experiencing multiple acute stresses at the same time, as in natural disasters or mass shootings, can leave lasting memory scars. New research from the University of California, Irvine suggests that levels of estrogen in the brain may play a surprising role in this vulnerability, especially for women. The study, published today in Neuron, provides insight into … Read more

Immune system dysfunction may fuel progressive heart failure after heart attacks

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When the heart’s muscle is weakened or injured due to a heart attack, it can make it hard for the heart to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Over time, it can lead to heart failure, where the heart’s function drops below 40%. The condition affects an estimated 6.7 million people over the … Read more