Women with polycystic ovary syndrome they may be more likely to cope memory problems in middle age, according to research published online in the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology “Neurology».

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal disorder defined by irregular menstruation and elevated androgen levels. Other symptoms may include excessive hair growth, acne, infertility and poor metabolic health. However, its effect on brain functions is not known.

In the present study 907 women, aged 18-30 years at baseline, participated. They were followed for 30 years and then completed tests measuring memory, verbal abilities, processing speed and attention. During the test period, 66 participants had polycystic ovary syndrome.

As found, participants with polycystic ovary syndrome had lower scores on tests done for memory, attention and verbal abilities, compared to participants without the condition.

During the study, a smaller group of 291 women had brain imaging tests. The researchers found that women with PCOS had lower brain white matter integrity, which may indicate early signs of brain aging.

The scientists clarify, however, that the study does not prove that polycystic ovary syndrome causes cognitive impairmentbut shows only a correlation.