Salivary cortisol patterns linked to cognitive decline over 11 years
In a study published in the journal JAMA Network Open, an irregular pattern and consistently higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol in saliva were associated with cognitive decline later in life. Black participants specifically had lower overall cortisol levels and less change in their levels during the day than white participants, according to newly published research.
A study published in JAMA Network Open has found a connection between irregular salivary cortisol patterns and cognitive decline over an 11-year period. Led by Ted K.S. Ng, Ph.D., the research examined 3,895 older adults, with 2,503 being Black and 1,392 white. The cortisol levels were measured at three points throughout the day, revealing that Black participants had consistently lower levels and less variation throughout the day compared to their white counterparts.
Despite these differences, both racial groups showed a similar relationship between cortisol patterns and cognitive decline. People with more fluctuating cortisol levels during the day experienced slower cognitive decline, while those with higher overall cortisol levels had a faster decline. This research, conducted primarily on Black older adults, highlights the potential role of stress-related cortisol as a biomarker for cognitive health disparities across racial groups.
However, the study did not find that cortisol patterns could predict the development of Alzheimer's disease. The authors emphasize the need for further research to explore the long-term effects of cortisol on cognitive aging.
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