May 15, 2023
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has been a controversial issue since the 1990s, when a major study found an association with higher rates of breast cancer and stroke. Experts now say that study overstated the risks. Researchers reviewed recent studies and found:
- The risks are much lower for women in their 40s and 50s, especially if they use HRT for five years or less;
- For women between 50 and 59 years of age or who start HRT within 10 years of their last period, the additional risk of breast cancer is estimated at three additional cases for every 1,000 women who use combined HRT for five years; and
- The risk of stroke for people under 60 using HRT was very small.
HRT is up to 90% effective in treating hot flashes and improves sleep quality and mood disturbances, the review paper said. It also prevents the loss of bone density.
Related:
Ménopause : Une nouvelle étude dresse la liste des bienfaits de l'hormonothérapie substitutive - Maclinique.fr