New Research Suggests Breast Cancer Survival May Lower Alzheimer’s Risk
Alzheimer’s disease risk is influenced by a complex combination of factors, including genetics, mental health, and diet. Recent research indicates that breast cancer survival could also play a role in this equation.
A study conducted by a team from various institutions in South Korea discovered that women who have survived breast cancer had an 8 percent lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. The study followed these women for an average of 7.3 years.
The researchers speculate that this reduced risk may be attributed to the effects of radiation therapy, which is a common treatment for breast cancer. This finding contradicts some previous studies that have linked cancer treatments to cognitive decline, often referred to as ‘chemobrain’.
Understanding the Link Between Breast Cancer Survival and Alzheimer’s Risk
Many breast cancer survivors report experiencing cognitive impairment related to their cancer treatment, such as difficulties with concentration and memory. However, the risk of Alzheimer’s dementia among breast cancer survivors remains a topic of mixed and inconclusive evidence.
The study analyzed health records of 70,701 patients who had been diagnosed with breast cancer and received treatment, comparing them to 180,360 healthy controls. Over the study period, the incidence of Alzheimer’s was found to be 8 percent lower in the group of breast cancer survivors.
Although the difference may seem small, it could have a significant impact over time and across larger populations, especially when considering other contributing factors. The study highlighted a clear statistical significance for the reduced risk in individuals over the age of 65, as Alzheimer’s is more prevalent in older individuals.
Implications of the Research
The data indicated that the risk reduction was most pronounced in individuals who had undergone radiation therapy for breast cancer, with the effect diminishing over time. This suggests that radiation therapy may have unknown effects on Alzheimer’s risk, possibly related to its ability to reduce inflammation in the brain.
Despite common concerns about the long-term cognitive effects of breast cancer treatment, the researchers emphasized that the treatment itself does not directly lead to Alzheimer’s dementia. This insight adds valuable context to the health challenges that may arise from breast cancer and its treatments, particularly in later life.
As breast cancer survival rates continue to improve, with early detection leading to high survival rates, it is essential to further research the long-term neurocognitive outcomes in this population. This study underscores the need for additional research to understand how breast cancer treatments may influence Alzheimer’s risk in survivors.
The findings of this research have been published in JAMA Network Open, shedding light on the intricate relationship between breast cancer survival and Alzheimer’s risk.
