A recent University of California study has revealed that women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are at risk of memory and thinking problems in middle age, The Telegraph reported

In Britain, as many as three million women suffer from PCOS which can cause irregular periods, heightened levels of testosterone, and infertility.

Researchers have found that the condition could lead to brain problems. It is linked to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart problems.

With around 900 women involved, the University of California’s study found that women between 50 and 60 had bad memory, attention, and verbal skills, compared to those not suffering from PCOS.

Brain scans also revealed that the connections between brain cells of the women with PCOS were poorer.

The condition affects 10% of women and can cause “lower memory and thinking skills and subtle brain changes at midlife”, Dr Heather Huddleston, of UC San Francisco and study author, said.

However, she noted that further research is needed to confirm the findings.