A new chapter in women’s brain health

A new study in JAMA offers a hopeful perspective on women’s brain health. Women account for two-thirds of Alzheimer’s patients yet may also possess unique forms of biological resilience that help protect cognitive function. The study notes that women with Alzheimer’s and other diseases such as multiple sclerosis, ALS and Parkinson disease live longer after diagnosis, and researchers say sex hormones, genetics and the X chromosome may help some women maintain cognitive function. The research could lead to new treatments and highlights the importance of studying women’s health as a distinct area of medical research.