Does the World Health Organization (WHO) have guidelines on MHT and dementia?

The WHO currently provides no specific guidance on dementia and MHT, but this new review will inform their upcoming guidelines expected in 2026.

What are the benefits and risks of menopause hormone therapy (MHT)?

MHT effectively treats menopausal symptoms like hot flashes but may carry a small increased risk of blood clots and breast cancer for some individuals.

Is there new evidence about MHT and cognitive decline?

A recent meta-analysis of over a million women found no strong evidence that MHT impacts dementia risk, either positively or negatively.

Home / Health / Menopause Hormones: No Link to Dementia Found

Menopause Hormones: No Link to Dementia Found

11 Jan

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Summary

New analysis shows no strong evidence linking hormone therapy to dementia.
A million women's data was reviewed for this WHO-commissioned study.
Research aims to inform upcoming WHO guidelines on cognitive decline.

Menopause Hormones: No Link to Dementia Found

Recent extensive research involving over a million women has revealed no significant link between menopause hormone therapy (MHT) and dementia risk. This rigorous meta-analysis, commissioned by the World Health Organization, provides crucial data that will inform upcoming WHO guidelines on reducing cognitive decline, expected in 2026. The findings address widespread uncertainty surrounding MHT's impact on memory and brain health.

Experts acknowledge MHT's effectiveness in managing menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and osteoporosis. However, concerns about potential risks, including a slight increase in blood clots or breast cancer, have complicated its use. This review, published in Healthy Longevity, found that observational studies showed inconsistent associations with dementia, with very low certainty.

While a single randomized trial suggested estrogen-only MHT might increase dementia risk in women over 65, the certainty of these results was low. The findings align with a 2024 Lancet Commission and the US FDA's plans to remove 'black box' warnings on MHT products. Further high-quality research, particularly on women experiencing premature menopause, is needed.