New Study Shows HRT May Reduce Alzheimer’s Risk by Up to 87%
New information brought to light by Nico Misleh at https://hrtuniversity.com/ is quite eye-opening: A new meta-analysis reveals HRT can significantly reduce Alzheimer’s risk—especially in APOE4 carriers. Learn how early estrogen therapy protects your brain.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has long been a powerful tool in women’s health, especially during and after menopause. But in 2024, a landmark systematic review and meta-analysis may have redefined how we think about its potential benefits. The study, published in Frontiers in Neurology by Brinton et al. in March 2024, explored a crucial question: Does menopausal hormone therapy reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s Disease (AD)?
The answer? A resounding yes.
This new research, available on PubMed, combines data from over 7 million women and delivers compelling results. At Evolve Health & Wellness in St. Cloud, Florida, we’ve always supported evidence-based hormone therapy for symptom relief, wellness, and longevity. Now, with emerging data like this, we’re doubling down on our commitment to personalized HRT for long-term cognitive and hormonal health.
The Study: Breaking Down the Data
The meta-analysis reviewed studies on menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), including both conjugated equine estrogens (CEE) and estradiol (E2), across multiple delivery methods (oral, transdermal, etc.). Key findings include:
- Starting MHT within 3-5 years of menopause was associated with a 44% reduced risk of Alzheimer’s Disease.
- When oral estrogen (PO CEE or E2) was used, the risk reduction increased to 55%.
- Conversely, adding synthetic progestins to the therapy was associated with an increased risk of AD—a factor that supports our clinical preference for bioidentical progesterone (P4) over synthetic alternatives.
- At Evolve Health and Wellness, we only support the use of bioidentical hormones
Why Timing Matters
One of the clearest takeaways? Earlier intervention is better.
Initiating hormone therapy within the first few years after menopause onset may have a protective effect on brain health. This aligns with the “critical window hypothesis,” which suggests that the timing of hormone exposure is crucial to its cognitive benefits.
The APOE-ε4 Revelation
Another jaw-dropping finding from the study:
For women who carry the APOE-ε4 gene (the strongest genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s), oral estrogen therapy reduced AD risk by an astonishing 87%.
Considering that APOE-ε4 increases AD risk by 2-15x depending on genetic variation, this is groundbreaking. For these high-risk women, oral estrogen could be one of the most effective preventive strategies available today.
Evolve Health & Wellness’s Approach to HRT
At Evolve Health & Wellness, we take a functional and individualized approach to hormone therapy:
- We only use bioidentical hormones, including E2 and P4, for optimal safety and effectiveness.
- We personalize dosing and delivery based on your symptoms, labs, health history, and goals.
- We educate our patients every step of the way.
Hormone therapy isn’t just about managing hot flashes or mood swings. It’s about protecting your brain, heart, bones, and overall vitality. And now, the science backs up what many of our patients already feel.
And men, estradiol is equally as important! As you take testosterone, your estradiol levels increase, providing the same amazing benefits women get from taking oral estradiol. A red flag is when clinics and providers prescribe aromatase inhibitors, blocking the amazing, and protective benefits, of estradiol!
Oral Estradiol (E2): The Gold Standard?
While transdermal estrogen is commonly used due to its low risk of blood clots (again caused by CEE and not bioidentical estrogens), this meta-analysis reminds us that oral estradiol (E2) might offer even stronger neuroprotective benefits.
Why?
- Oral E2 undergoes first-pass metabolism in the liver, which may activate key anti-inflammatory pathways.
- It has been associated with a greater reduction in β-amyloid plaques—a hallmark of Alzheimer’s pathology.
Of course, each patient is different, and our providers will help determine the best delivery method for your lifestyle and risk profile.
Still Not Sure? Here’s What to Ask Your Provider:
- What type of estrogen am I being prescribed?
- Is it bioidentical?
- How will this impact my long-term brain health?
- Should I be screened for APOE-ε4?
Internal Links You Might Find Helpful:
- Learn About Bioidentical Hormone Therapy
- Men’s Hormone Therapy & Testosterone Support
- Peptide Therapy for Brain and Body Optimization
- Schedule Your Consultation
Final Thoughts: Prevention is Power
At Evolve, we believe knowledge is power—especially when it comes to your brain and hormones. This new study underscores the potential for HRT to serve as both a therapeutic and preventive tool against one of the most feared diseases of aging.
If you’re in your 40s, 50s, or even early 60s, don’t wait. A proactive approach to hormone therapy could mean better cognition, longer vitality, and a lower risk of Alzheimer’s Disease down the road.
Ready to take control of your cognitive health?
Book your hormone consultation at Evolve Health & Wellness in St. Cloud, FL today. Our team is here to guide you with science-backed, personalized support.
Call us at (407) 593-1372 or schedule your appointment here.