Published in JAMA Network Open, the findings challenge the assumption that chemotherapy-related memory lapses or attention problems lead to long-term cognitive decline.
No Connection Between Chemo Brain and Dementia
The study, conducted by researchers from Samsung Medical Center, Soongsil University, and Seoul National University Hospital, followed nearly 70,000 breast cancer patients who underwent surgery between 2010 and 2016. They were compared with 180,000 age-, sex-, income-, and comorbidity-matched individuals over an average follow-up of 7.9 years.
Radiation Therapy Linked to Greater Protection
Patients who received radiation therapy showed an even more pronounced benefit, with a 23% lower dementia risk. Researchers hypothesize that incidental low-dose radiation exposure to the brain may reduce inflammation and help preserve cognitive function, though the exact mechanism remains under study.
"Cognitive impairment during chemotherapy is usually temporary," said Dong Wook Shin, a professor at Samsung Medical Center. "Patients should focus on their treatment and managing complications rather than worrying about dementia."
Lifestyle and Chronic Conditions Pose Bigger Risks
The study underscores that lifestyle factors and comorbidities contribute far more to dementia risk than cancer treatments. Among breast cancer patients, smokers had more than double the risk of dementia, those with diabetes had a 58% higher risk, and patients with chronic kidney disease faced a threefold higher risk.
Soo Min Jung, a professor at Seoul National University Hospital, emphasized the study’s implications: "These findings confirm that cognitive changes during breast cancer treatment do not lead to dementia. We hope this gives patients confidence to pursue their treatment."
The research offers reassurance to breast cancer patients, dispelling fears of long-term cognitive decline and suggesting that survivors may even retain a cognitive advantage over their peers.
Lim Hye Jung, HEALTH IN NEWS TEAM
press@hinews.co.kr
