The Gender Gap in Alzheimer’s: Why Women Are at Higher Risk 

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The Gender Gap in Alzheimer’s: Why Women Are at Higher Risk 

Jessica Luu
May 2024

Picture yourself in a room surrounded by people. If each person were to raise their hand to indicate they have Alzheimer’s, you might notice that more women would raise their hands than men. This isn’t a coincidence. Surprisingly, almost two-thirds of Americans living with Alzheimer’s are women.[1] But why is this the case? To understand this gender gap, we need to look at various factors that make women more susceptible to this neurodegenerative disease. 

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Biological and Hormonal Factors 

One of the most prominent theories explaining the higher incidence of Alzheimer’s in women involves hormonal changes, particularly those associated with menopause. Estrogen, a hormone that declines sharply during menopause, is believed to play a protective role in brain health. Estrogen receptors are found throughout the brain, and this hormone is known to have neuroprotective properties, including reducing inflammation, promoting synaptic growth, and enhancing cerebral blood flow.[2] This dramatic loss of estrogen during menopause could therefore, make women more vulnerable to the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. 

Genetics: The Inherited Risk 

Genetics also plays a critical role in the risk of developing Alzheimer’s. The presence of the APOE-e4 allele, a variant of apolipoprotein E gene, is a well-known risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.[5]Interestingly, research shows that women who carry the APOE-e4 allele are at a higher risk compared to men with the same genetic variant. The reasons behind this heightened vulnerability are not entirely understood, but they may involve differences in how the gene interacts with female-specific factors, such as hormonal changes and other epigenetic mechanisms.[5] 

Social and Lifestyle Factors 

Women have historically been primary caregivers, which can lead to chronic stress—a known risk factor for Alzheimer’s. Chronic stress elevates cortisol levels, and prolonged exposure to cortisol can cause damage to the hippocampus (the brain region responsible for memory consolidation)[3]. Additionally, women are more likely to experience depression and anxiety,[4] both of which are linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s. When you combine these mental health issues with the stress of caregiving and hormonal changes from menopause, it becomes clear why women are more disproportionately affected by the disease than men. 

Building Resilience 

However, there is hope. By understanding these factors, women can take proactive steps to reduce their risk: 

  • Physical Activity: Engaging in regular exercises and strength training can increase blood flow to the brain and promote the health of brain cells, which may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.[1] 
  • Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide essential nutrients that support brain health and may prevent progression of Alzheimer’s.[6] 
  • Mental Stimulation: Keeping your brain active with activities like reading, puzzles, learning new skills, and socializing may build up mental stamina, which in the long run, can delay the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms. [1] 
  • Quality Sleep: Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night, as quality sleep is crucial for memory consolidation and brain health.[1] 

Ultimately, by incorporating these changes into one’s daily routine, women can enhance their overall well-being all while mitigating their risk of Alzheimer’s. 

As we continue to research more about Alzheimer’s and its effect on women, advocating for greater awareness and support is essential. By doing so, we can ensure that women everywhere can live their life to fullest, today and for generations to come. Together, we can work towards a healthier and brighter future where Alzheimer’s is better understood, prevented, and ultimately cured. 

References: 

[1] Alzheimer’s Association. (2024). “Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures.” Accessed 22 May 2024, Alzheimer’s Association. https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/facts-figures 

[2] Alzheimer’s Society. (n.d.). “Hormones and Dementia Risk.” Accessed 22 May 2024, Alzheimer’s Society. https://www.alzheimers.org.uk/about-dementia/managing-the-risk-of-dementia 

[3] Browning, M.E., Hocking, C., Hunter, M., Khan, Z., Middleton, C., (2022). “Increased Cortisol and Altered Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Levels in Alzheimer’s Disease. Alzheimer’s Research and Therapy. Accessed 22 May 2024. https://alzres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13195-022-01139-9 

[4] Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research. (2020). “Depression Increases the Risk for Alzheimer’s.” ALZinfo.org. Accessed 22 May 2024. 

[5] National Institute on Aging (2023). “Alzheimer’s Disease Genetics Fact Sheet.” U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Accessed 22 May 2024 . https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/genetics-and-family-history/alzheimers-disease-genetics-fact-sheet

[6] Robbins, R. (2020) “What to Eat to Reduce Your Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease.” Harvard Health Blog. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/what-to-eat-to-reduce-your-risk-of-alzheimers-disease-20200508197 74