Women born in U.S. states with higher levels of structural sexism experience faster memory decline in later years. A new study from Columbia University reveals a surprising link between systemic sexism and cognitive health.
The study found that being born in a state with higher structural sexism was equivalent to nine years of cognitive aging. This highlights the profound impact of societal factors on women’s memory and cognitive performance in old age.
WHAT IS STRUCTURAL SEXISM?
Structural sexism refers to systemic inequalities that women face, driven by social policies, societal norms, and institutional practices. It differs from individual acts of sexism, like hate crimes or slurs. It encompasses issues like gender inequality in the workplace, political representation, and healthcare access.
KEY FINDINGS
Researchers looked at data from 21,000 people. This group included women age 65 and older. The data came from the Washington Heights-Inwood Columbia Aging Project and the Health and Retirement Study. The study linked structural sexism in states with faster memory decline in women. Factors considered in measuring sexism included male-to-female labor force ratios, the number of women in state legislatures, and poverty rates.
RACIAL DISPARITIES IN MEMORY DECLINE
The study also found that Black women showed the highest levels of memory decline related to structural sexism. “Women racialized as Black face unique oppression. Sexism and racism combine to create this oppression,” says Jennifer Manly, professor of neuropsychology and senior author of the study.
THE LINK BETWEEN SEXISM AND ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE
The study also has significant implications for understanding Alzheimer’s disease. Women are disproportionately affected by Alzheimer’s, accounting for two-thirds of Americans with the disease. The findings suggest that addressing social inequities may be key in reducing Alzheimer’s rates, particularly among women.
UNDEREXPLORED FACTOR: STRUCTURAL SEXISM
Much research on Alzheimer’s focuses on biological differences between men and women. However, this study reveals that structural sex and gender discrimination may also play an underappreciated role in accelerating memory decline. “Structural inequalities create barriers to health-enhancing resources. These barriers lead to disparities in physical health. Disparities in physical health can influence brain health,” explains study leader Justina Avila-Rieger.
LONG-TERM IMPACT OF INEQUITY
The researchers argue that structural inequalities can have long-term effects on health. Exposure to structural sexism can create chronic stress. It can also limit access to healthcare and educational opportunities. This situation directly impacts physical health and cognitive function over time.
THE NEED FOR POLICY CHANGE
Avila-Rieger plans to examine how structural sexism impacts cognitive health at various stages of life. “Early exposure to inequality could have lasting effects, with consequences that accumulate over time,” she says. By understanding which aspects of structural sexism most affect cognitive health, policymakers can develop more effective interventions.
