New research is showing that there may be a link between polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and poorer cognitive function in middle age and beyond.The Big Picture: Dr. Puja Uppal, Family Medicine, “We’re learning more about the impact of PCOS on future cognitive function.”Doctor’s Expert Insights about PCOS and Brain Function for Richmond County, GeorgiaKnow this: “As you may know, PCOS has already been tied to obesity, diabetes, and heart issues. However, its effects on cognition are less understood. This new research is going to add to our understanding of how PCOS impacts brain and cognitive function. Also, please keep in mind that further studies are needed to understand the connection between polycystic ovary syndrome and cognitive impairment. More research will also examine whether lifestyle interventions such as regular exercise and mental health support can enhance brain health and function for those diagnosed with PCOS. As for now, if you have PCOS, I strongly recommend that you have your A1c and cholesterol levels monitored. Talk to your healthcare team!” Dr. Puja Uppal, Family Medicine. Health Standard Newswire: PCOS is a common disorder that affects approximately 8%–15% of women.Health News Today for Richmond CountyKey Findings:The study examined the data of women participants in the CARDIA study over a period of 30 years. During the duration of the study, the women were given tests of memory, verbal skills, processing speed, and attention, among others.Women with PCOS scored significantly lower on tests of memory, attention, and verbal abilities compared to those without PCOS.Also of note, brain scans of a subset of participants showed that women with PCOS had “lower white matter integrity”– indicating potential early brain aging.This study does not prove PCOS causes cognitive decline, but it does show an association that requires further research.Medical News Today: Key TakeawayThe findings from this study could pave the way for future research into how PCOS affects the brain & cognitive health.What They’re Saying: “The mechanistic underpinnings of these findings remain to be elucidated, although our finding of an association between free testosterone, measured in earlier adulthood, and cognition at midlife highlights a potential role for androgens. Alternatively, cardiovascular risk factors, particularly diabetes, are also more common in PCOS, although the PCOS associations with cognition were not meaningfully diminished when controlling for diabetes and other cardiovascular risk factors, including systolic blood pressure and adiposity. Depressive symptoms have also been consistently shown to be increased in people with PCOS and could affect cognitive function.” (Study Source) Medical News and Statistics for Richmond CountyLiving in Georgia, the following health facts impact your physical health directly!Did you know there were 21931 deaths from Heart Disease in Georgia in 2021?20.8% of you in Richmond County report that you’re health status is not good.20.6% of you in Richmond County are depressed.82.2% of women in Richmond County have had a cervical cancer screening in the past year.All of these variables above play an important role in the outcomes of your overall health.The Health Standard Newswire.