Scientists believe they have discovered the cause of “chemo brain” that affects up to 75,000 cancer patients – a term for memory and attention problems that often occur during treatment.
American researchers claim it can be linked to excess calcium in the brain, and the findings could lead to new treatments to restore cognitive function in patients.
Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health and is found in abundance in dairy products. It also acts as an important messenger in cells throughout the body.
However, accumulation of the nutrient is known to occur in patients with heart failure and atrial fibrillation – a common condition that causes the heart to beat irregularly.
Scientists believe they have discovered the cause of “chemo brain” disease in about 75,000 cancer patients
Teams from Columbia University’s Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center found that chemotherapy also causes “calcium leaks” in the brain.
The mice they were tested on also had memory problems as they struggled with mazes and navigating obstacles. The researchers also found that one of their drugs in development could reduce calcium loss and cognitive symptoms in the mice.
Dr. Andrew Marks, professor of physiology and cell biophysics and co-author of the study, said: “As a doctor, one of the questions I ask my cancer patients is, ‘What affects you most in everyday life?’ They say they are brain teasers – something a busy doctor usually doesn’t have time for.
“This is a very important problem with a huge unmet clinical need.”
The study also supports the argument that calcium leaks play an important role in cognitive deficits in general. An excess of minerals in cells is observed in patients with Alzheimer’s disease, long Covid and PTSD.
Cancer Research UK estimates that of the almost 400,000 Britons diagnosed with cancer each year, 28 per cent receive chemotherapy as part of their treatment.
About three-quarters of these patients report memory and thinking problems, although experts say these go away within six to nine months of completing treatment.
Other common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea, fatigue and hair loss.
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Crystal Leahy is an author and health journalist who writes for The Fashion Vibes. With a background in health and wellness, Crystal has a passion for helping people live their best lives through healthy habits and lifestyles.
