Polycystic ovary syndrome linked to memory, thinking problems

Women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome may be more likely to have memory and thinking problems in middle age, according to new research.

The study, published in the online issue of Neurology, does not prove that polycystic ovary syndrome causes cognitive decline. It only shows an association.

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder that is defined by irregular menstruation and elevated levels of a hormone called Androgen.

Other symptoms may include excess hair growth, acne, infertility and poor metabolic health.

It is a common reproductive disorder that impacts up to 10 per cent of women. While it has been linked to metabolic diseases like obesity and diabetes that can lead to heart problems, less is known about how this condition affects brain health.

“Our results suggest that people with this condition have lower memory and thinking skills and subtle brain changes at midlife. This could impact a person on many levels, including quality of life, career success and financial security,” said Heather G. Huddleston, from the University of California, San Francisco.

The study involved 907 female participants who were 18 to 30 years old at the start of the study. They were followed for 30 years, at which time they completed tests to measure memory, verbal abilities, processing speed and attention.

At the time of testing, 66 participants had polycystic ovary syndrome. The results showed that people with polycystic ovary syndrome had an average score that was approximately 11 per cent lower compared to people without the condition.