What long-term data supports the use of ET for cognition in women?

The long-term data supporting the use of estrogen therapy (ET) for cognition in women is derived from the 18-year cumulative follow-up data from the Women's Health Initiative (WHI). This extensive dataset provides insights into the cognitive effects of ET over an extended period, which is crucial for understanding its long-term benefits and risks. The WHI study specifically addresses cognitive function among postmenopausal women, making its findings particularly relevant for assessing the role of estrogen in cognitive health.

This long-term data is far more informative than short-term placebo studies, which may not capture the cumulative effects or the longer-term implications of therapy. Meta-analyses of diet studies or surveys of menopausal women typically focus on different variables and do not directly evaluate the impact of estrogen therapy on cognitive outcomes. The WHI findings thus represent the most robust evidence available for the cognitive benefits of estrogen therapy, supporting clinical recommendations in this area.