Beyond biology: Why menopause research is a matter of health equity
Published on 12 February 2026 at 07:29
🧠 Menopause and brain health: A new frontier
We have some exciting news to share!
We wrote, in collaboration with Dr Miguel Borda, a featured article for The Conversation UK exploring the vital connection between hormones and aging. This partnership has been a fantastic journey into understanding how our bodies and brains evolve together.
In our piece, we dive deep into how menopause affects the female brain, a topic that is absolutely essential for anyone interested in longevity. We explain that as estrogen levels naturally decline, the brain loses a key "bodyguard" that helps keep it healthy. While this shift can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s, there is a very hopeful side to the story.
Our piece highlights a critical "window of opportunity" where hormone replacement therapy (HRT), when started early, can act as a protective shield. By stepping in at the right time, these treatments may help preserve brain structure and reduce the buildup of proteins linked to neurodegeneration.
Beyond the biology, we felt it was vital to address the broader societal impact. For too long, women’s health has been an overlooked chapter in medical science. Bridging this gap is a matter of health equity, especially for underrepresented groups who often face significant barriers to accessing hormone education and personalized care.
At Barreto lab, we are truly passionate about this. It reinforces our mission to advocate for inclusive, personalized health strategies that ensure everyone has the tools to stay sharp, vibrant, and healthy as they age.
Add comment
Comments