COVID-19 lockdowns may have accelerated brain aging in teenagers, particularly girls, by 4.2 years.

A study from the University of Washington indicates that COVID-19 lockdowns may have accelerated brain aging in teenagers, particularly girls, by 4.2 years compared to 1.4 years for boys. MRI scans revealed accelerated cortical thinning in 30 brain regions for girls and only two for boys. These changes raise concerns about potential long-term impacts on mental health and development, underscoring the need for support for adolescents during this critical period.