Men’s Brains May Age More Rapidly Than Women's, Claims New Study

We’ve long heard that men and women age differently, but new science suggests that this may extend to our brains, too. According to recent research, men’s brains appear to shrink faster with age compared to women’s, particularly in areas related to memory, cognition, and perception. The findings could help explain certain differences in how men and women experience cognitive decline, though scientists caution that faster ageing in brain structure doesn’t necessarily mean faster loss of brain function.

The research, however, offers an important reminder about the influence of lifestyle, hormones, and genetics on brain health and ageing.

What the Study Found

A major study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS) found that men experience a greater decline in brain volume in more regions compared to women as they age. 

• The research team analysed over 12,500 MRI brain scans from 4,726 individuals aged 17 to 95, each with at least two scans taken over several years. None of the participants had Alzheimer’s disease or cognitive impairments. The scans revealed that:
• Men's brains showed more pronounced shrinkage in areas such as the cortex, hippocampus, and other subcortical structures.
• Women’s brains maintained greater stability in many of these regions until later in life.
• Despite men’s faster overall structural decline, women are still more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease, indicating that other factors, such as hormones or longevity, may play a bigger role.

Lead researcher Anne Ravndal from the University of Oslo said, “We found that men’s brains generally undergo more structural changes across various regions, while women’s cortical thickness remains relatively stable for longer.”

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Why This Matters

Brain shrinkage, or atrophy, is a natural part of ageing. It often starts in middle age and may progress differently across individuals. The study’s findings highlight that while both men and women experience age-related changes, men might face a steeper trajectory, especially in areas of the brain linked to memory and decision-making.

Why men’s brains may age faster

According to the study, this could be due to:

• Hormonal differences: Testosterone levels drop in men over time, potentially affecting neuronal health.
• Lifestyle habits: Higher rates of smoking, stress, and poor sleep patterns may contribute to faster ageing.
• Cardiovascular health: Men are more prone to conditions like hypertension that impact brain blood flow.
• Genetic factors: Certain genes related to brain repair and inflammation differ in expression between the sexes.

However, researchers call for more work to understand the interplay between biology, lifestyle, and environment in shaping how the brain ages.

Can We Slow Down Brain Ageing?

While genetics play a role, lifestyle choices can make a significant difference. Neurologists emphasise that brain ageing is not entirely inevitable, its pace can be influenced by regular habits.

Ways to protect brain health

• Engage in aerobic and strength exercises regularly.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and omega-3s.
• Prioritise sleep—aim for 7 to 8 hours per night.
• Keep learning new skills or hobbies to enhance neuroplasticity.
• Manage stress and anxiety through mindfulness or relaxation techniques.
• Regular medical check-ups for blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose also help protect brain function as you age.

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Conclusion

The new study underscores that men’s brains may age faster structurally, but staying mentally and physically active can help offset these effects. Understanding how gender influences brain ageing could lead to improved prevention strategies for neurodegenerative diseases in both men and women. It’s one more reason to care not just for your body, but for your brain—no matter your age.