A groundbreaking study by Columbia University researchers has revealed that women born in U.S. states with higher levels of structural sexism face accelerated memory decline after age 65 compared to their counterparts from less sexist states. The cognitive impact is stark - equivalent to nine additional years of brain aging.
The research team analyzed data from over 21,000 participants, examining how state-level gender inequality during participants' birth years correlated with their cognitive performance later in life. They measured structural sexism through various metrics, including workforce gender ratios, female representation in state legislatures, and poverty rates.
Black women showed particularly pronounced effects, suggesting that the combined impact of gender and racial discrimination creates unique challenges for cognitive health. "The intersection of sexism and racism appears to produce distinct pressures that may more severely affect brain health," notes Professor Jennifer Manly, the study's senior author.
While previous research on women's higher rates of Alzheimer's disease has centered on biological factors like hormones and genetics, these findings highlight how societal inequalities may play an unexpectedly large role. Women currently represent two-thirds of Americans living with Alzheimer's disease.
The exact mechanisms linking structural sexism to accelerated cognitive decline remain unclear. However, lead researcher Justina Avila-Rieger explains that systemic barriers to healthcare and resources likely contribute to chronic health conditions that affect brain function over time.
The research team plans to investigate which specific aspects of structural inequality most impact cognitive health, aiming to provide concrete policy recommendations. They will also examine whether certain life stages are particularly vulnerable to the effects of systemic sexism.
This study adds to mounting evidence that addressing social inequities could help reduce the burden of cognitive decline and dementia, particularly among women from historically disadvantaged backgrounds.