Estrogen's Effects on Alzheimers
Several observational studies have already indicated that women on estrogen replacement therapy appear to do better on memory tests.
Friday, February 2, 2001
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Durham, N.C. -- Several observational studies have
already indicated that women on estrogen replacement therapy appear
to do better on memory tests. Duke University Medical Center
research coordinator Jean Gonzalez says the National Institutes of
Health decided it was time to put this anecdotal evidence to a
scientific test.
"The goal of the study is to see if estrogen reduces the risk of dementia and maintains memory in older women. Several studies have suggested that estrogen may help the brain to function better and may help improve memory in post-menopausal women."
The study will take place at 20 locations around the country and will involve hundreds of women over 65 who have at least one member of their immediate biological family already diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. Researchers at Duke will then analyze the findings. Study participants must be in general good health, not already on estrogen replacement therapy, and cannot have been previously diagnosed with Alzheimer's themselves. I'm Tom Britt.
Research coordinator Lisalynn Kelley says the reports from observational studies are not enough to advise the use of estrogen to prevent Alzheimer's.
Cut 2...with estrogen...:13 . . . (Preview this in a WAV file in 16-bit mono.)