Certain neuropsychiatric symptoms, such as depression and psychosis, occur more frequently in women with Alzheimer's dementia than in men with Alzheimer's dementia. This is one of the central findings of a study by researchers from the Netherlands, Sweden, the USA, Canada, and Australia.
Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are generally very common in people with Alzheimer's dementia (AD). However, there are significant differences between men and women regarding the development and manifestation of these symptoms. This has been discovered by researchers from the Netherlands, Sweden, the USA, Canada, and Australia. They analyzed a total of 62 studies with 21,554 patients, including 61.2 percent women, in a review. The results can contribute to the early detection and therapy of specific neuropsychiatric symptoms in AD.
More severe depression in women
Regarding the presence of NPS and their overall severity, the study found no differences between women and men. However, specific symptoms occurred predominantly in the female sex. The meta-analysis indicates, „that the female sex is associated with a higher frequency and severity of depressiveness, aberrant motor behavior, and psychotic symptoms in AD, while the male sex is associated with more pronounced apathy in AD,“ the study states.
However, there was no association between sex and the frequency and severity of agitation, anxiety, disinhibition, eating behavior, euphoria, hallucinations, irritability, and sleep disturbances.
Further evidence provided
With their review paper, the research group thereby provided further evidence for a higher symptom burden in women with AD, which had already been identified in previous studies, as well as for a greater severity of apathy in men with AD. The scientists were unable to confirm evidence of a higher frequency of agitation/aggression in men within the scope of this study.
The gender differences can only be partially explained by a history of psychiatric illnesses, write the researchers. Neurobiological and psychosocial factors are also associated with the onset of AD.
Tailored treatment approaches
Regarding tailored treatment approaches for affected individuals, the scientists are calling for further research. It is crucial to determine whether the observed gender differences in NPS „are caused by different underlying neurobiological and/or psychosocial mechanisms.“ If there are differences, these could form the basis for gender-specific pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment measures for NPS in Alzheimer's dementia.
Tip for practiceThe findings on gender-specific differences in the presentation of neuropsychiatric symptoms should be incorporated into clinical practice and form the basis for targeted interventions.
Here is the link to the study:
Sex Differences in Neuropsychiatric Symptoms in Alzheimer's Disease Dementia: A Meta-Analysis
