Oestrogen’s Impact on Parkinson’s Dementia
Oestrogen’s Impact on Parkinson’s Dementia: Balancing Potential Benefits and Risks Parkinson’s dementia—a cognitive decline that affects up to 80% of people with Parkinson’s disease (PD)—presents unique challenges. Emerging research suggests oestrogen may influence both motor and cognitive symptoms, but the evidence remains nuanced. Here’s what we know so far: Potential Cognitive Benefits in PD Neuroprotection for Dopamine Systems : Oestrogen appears to protect dopamine-producing neurons, which degenerate in PD. A 2019 imaging study found that postmenopausal women with longer lifetime oestrogen exposure had healthier dopamine systems and less severe motor symptoms, suggesting a possible indirect benefit for cognitive function 7 . Reduced Risk of Parkinson’s Dementia : While no studies directly target Parkinson’s dementia, a 2020 meta-analysis linked oestrogen replacement therapy (ERT) to a lower risk of d...