In a middle-aged cohort study, researchers investigated the impact of cardiovascular risk factors on white matter damage and cognitive functions in men and women. They found that hypertension had a stronger association with more extensive white matter hyperintensities (WMH) and lower fractional anisotropy (FA) in women compared to men. Additionally, current smoking was associated with more severe WMH in women only. Surprisingly, WMH were not significantly associated with cognitive test results. However, higher FA was linked to better performance in motor function in both sexes and executive functions in men. These findings suggest that women may be more susceptible to vascular pathology leading to white matter damage. It’s important to note that the study indicated no direct link between WMH and cognition, but FA was associated with executive function tests in men, indicating potential differences in cognitive reserve between the sexes. To learn more about the research methodology and findings, dive into the full article!
ObjectiveTo evaluate potential sex-specific effects of multiple cardiovascular risk factors on white matter pathology in normal aging men and women, as well as potential sex-differences in the association of white matter pathology and cognitive functions.MethodsWe analyzed cross-sectional data of 581 participants (median age: 53 years, 54% women) of the population-based cohort of the BiDirect Study who completed clinical examinations, five neuropsychological tests, and an 3T MRI examination. White matter pathology was determined by the extent of white matter hyperintensities (WMH) on FLAIR images as well as the magnitude of global fractional anisotropy (FA) based on diffusion tensor imaging. Main effects, interaction as well as sex-stratified generalized linear regression models were used to evaluate the moderating effect of sex on the association of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, smoking, and obesity with WMH and FA, respectively. Associations of imaging markers with cognitive test results were determined with linear regression models.ResultsHypertension showed stronger associations with more extensive WMH and less FA in women compared to men. Current smoking was associated with more severe WMH in women only. Adjusted for age and education, WMH were not significantly associated with cognitive tests, but higher FA was associated with better performance in motor function in both sexes and with executive functions in men, even after adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors.ConclusionWe observed a stronger association of hypertension and smoking with white matter damage in women, suggesting a higher susceptibility for vascular pathology in women. However, there was no association of WMH with cognition, and FA was associated with executive function tests only in men, suggesting a higher cognitive reserve in women.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.