DHEA Levels May Not Affect Cognitive Decline

CHICAGO--A new study suggests that DHEA [dehydroepiandrosterone] may not improve cognitive decline in healthy adults. However, it was noted that DHEA levels may have a different effect on those suffering from Alzheimer's disease.

Results from the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging were reported in the July 25 issue of The Archives of Internal Medicine. The study, which spanned 12 years, followed approximately 800 men between the ages of 22 and 91. Every two years, their cognitive status was tracked by comparing blood samples containing DHEA and testing for verbal and visual memory.

As the study progressed, DHEA and cognition levels decreased as the men aged. However, cognitive function was not significantly different in men with either high DHEA levels or low DHEA levels. Researchers concluded that a larger, placebo-controlled study should be conducted to conclusively determine the effects of DHEA on healthy aging adults and Alzheimer's patients. For additional information, visit http://archinte.ama-assn.org/issues/current/full/ioi90684.html.