In one of our previous entries, we explored how cardiovascular disease (CVD) shows up differently in women, and why those differences often go unrecognized. The same is true for another group of conditions that deeply affect women’s health: neurodegenerative diseases.
Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and multiple sclerosis (MS) are not just diseases of aging; instead, they are conditions where women face unique risks and, in some cases, distinct symptom patterns compared to men. Yet, just like in heart disease, these differences are often overlooked.
- Alzheimer’s disease: Women are almost twice as likely as men to develop Alzheimer’s, and it’s not just because they live longer. Hormonal changes, genetics, and even differences in the immune system play a part. Moreover, the way symptoms show up can differ significantly. While women often have earlier problems with memory and language, men are more likely to struggle with navigation. Once diagnosed, women also tend to decline faster, which is a clear sign that research needs to better reflect these differences..
- Parkinson’s disease: Men are more frequently diagnosed, but women often experience Parkinson’s differently. Tremor is more likely to be their first symptom, while men show more stiffness and walking difficulties. Women also report more non-motor symptoms, like depression, fatigue, or pain, which can delay recognition and treatment.
- Multiple sclerosis (MS): Women are three times more likely than men to develop MS due to the influence of sex hormones, the presence of certain genes, and lifestyle factors. They are also more likely to have the relapsing-remitting form, marked by flare-ups of numbness, tingling, or vision problems. Men, in contrast, often develop a more progressive type earlier.
Why does this matter?
Because if symptoms are misinterpreted, delayed, or studied mainly in male populations, women lose valuable time for intervention. For these reasons, awareness and tailored research are critical to closing these gaps.
At the Longevity Science Foundation, our Women’s Health Campaign is committed to changing this. By supporting early-stage research and knowledge in female health and longevity, we help uncover why diseases affect women differently and how to prevent, detect, and treat them more effectively.
What you can do today:
1. Know the early signs of neurodegenerative diseases, and don’t ignore changes in memory, movement, or mood.
2. Take brain health seriously: regular exercise, good sleep, balanced nutrition, and social engagement all help lower risk.
3. Share this knowledge: awareness is one of the most powerful tools we have until research catches up.
Women deserve a future where their unique biology is recognized, not overlooked. By bringing sex-specific differences to light, from heart health to brain health, we can build a healthier, longer life for women everywhere.