Correlation between intensity of menopausal symptoms and cognitive domain assessed with CNS-VS tests

Abstract

Introduction: Numerous publications suggest that many cognitive domains deteriorate with age. As far as postmenopausal women are concerned, the question remains whether the process is caused only by an ageing brain or also by the menopause. The objective of this research was to analyze a possible correlation between intensity and duration of menopausal symptoms and the level of cognitive domains measured with CNS-VS tests among post-menopausal women. Methodology: The group under examination included 383 postmenopausal women (at least 2 years after their last menstruation) from South-Eastern Poland. The following inclusion criteria were used: age 50-65, good overall health status, at least primary level of education, and FSH>30 mlU/ml. Cognitive domains were assessed using the CNS – VitalSigns diagnostic device. The intensity of menopausal symptoms was measured with the Kupperman Index and the Greene Scale. The statistical analysis was conducted with the use of the Statistica software. Results: There were no significant relations between age at last menstruation and cognitive domains. BMI was positively correlated with the Neurocognitive index (NCI) and memory, visual memory, processing speed, and executive functions. The intensity of menopausal symptoms measured with the Greene Scale was negatively correlated with NCI and most of the cognitive domains, whereas symptoms measured with the Kupperman Index were negatively correlated with NCI and visual memory. Conclusions: Our findings suggest a correlation of the intensity and duration of menopausal symptoms with the level of cognitive domain among menopausal women. The most significant consequences resulting from changes in the cognitive domains included psychological and vasomotor symptoms, as well as – to a lesser extent – somatic symptoms.