New study shows human brain size has increased over the past 80 years

JVTech News New study shows human brain size has increased over the past 80 years

Published 04/28/2024 at 15:15.

According to a recent study conducted by American scientists, the size of the human brain has increased significantly over the past 80 years. Enough to counteract preconceived ideas that would rather tend to the contrary.

A real object of admiration for scientists. The human brain has been the focus of much research for decades. Over time, many theories suggested that its volume had decreased for centuries. But thanks to a new study based on data collected over 75 years, we now know that this is not true.

In the United States and especially in California, research began in 1948 to determine whether the volume of the midbrain has increased over time people born between 1930 and 1970. During this period, many social changes caused people to develop faster than in the past. Numerous advances in many areas, including health and education, as well as the emergence of new technologies, – all factors mentioned in the study.

Long-term study with amazing results

The study was carried out in two stages: first it was based on more than 3,200 volunteers born between 1925 and 1968.with no history of dementia or stroke. Then, secondly, this lasted from 1999 to 2019. Participants then underwent an MRI of the brain and a battery of neuropsychological tests. End of 2023, The data was collected and analyzed to give the final results of this experiment.

The researchers involved in the study then took various measurements, covering not only overall brain volume, but also specific areas such as the hippocampus, which corresponds to the area of the brain associated with memory and learning. The results show that participants’ brain size increased by an average of 6.6% over the course of the study.

So, contrary to what one might think, The average brain size has not decreased: in fact, it’s quite the opposite! The study also shows that social changes and improvements in health and education played an important role in this situation.

New study shows human brain size has increased over the past 80 years

Benefits of a Bigger Brain

However, according to the study, Enlargement of the brain in recent decades may explain the decline in the incidence of dementia. The United States has seen a 20% decline since the 1970s. Larger brains may be more likely to fight the effects of some diseases, starting with Alzheimer’s disease.

“This study extends current knowledge by showing that secular trends in brain structure are occurring. Improved brain structure, which may reflect improved brain development and health, is at least one manifestation of improved brain reserve that may mitigate the impact of late-life illness on dementia. »completes the study. It remains to be seen whether this trend will continue in the coming decades.