Researchers found that common screens for memory and thinking, such as the MMSE and the mild cognitive impairment stage (MCI), may work differently for women and men. A good MMSE score in the MCI stage may not show all brain changes in some women.
The team compared brain scans from people at different disease stages and saw different patterns for each sex. Men showed earlier shrinkage when cognitive health went from normal to MCI. Women showed more decline later, from MCI to Alzheimer’s. The authors say tests should be read with sex differences in mind. People should still follow usual prevention advice and talk to a doctor about risks.
Difficult words
- screen — a test to check memory or thinkingscreens
- mild cognitive impairment — a small decline in thinking and memory
- brain scan — a medical image that shows the brainbrain scans
- shrinkage — a decrease in the size of something
- decline — a loss or reduction in ability or health
- prevention — actions to stop a disease before it begins
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think tests should be read with sex differences in mind? Why?
- What prevention advice would you give to someone worried about memory?
- Would you talk to a doctor about memory risks? Why or why not?
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