Two large recent studies indicate an increased risk of breast cancer with use of menopausal hormone therapy (HT), particularly combinations of estrogen and progestogen. These studies also go against previous theories of the types of breast cancer that would be associated with HT use. Emerging information regarding the influence of estrogen plus progestin on breast cancer risk adds further weight to the recommendation against use for chronic disease risk reduction and raises additional questions regarding risks of even short-term use for vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause.
aHarbor-UCLA Research and Education Institute, USA
Rowan T. Chlebowski, M.D., Ph.D., Harbor-UCLA Research and Education Institute, 1124 W. Carson Street, Building J-3, Torrance, CA 90502, USA
☆ The WHI trial was stopped early when potential benefits were exceeded by observed risks, including increases in coronary heart disease, strokes, pulmonary emboli, and invasive breast cancers
The Million Women Study found the risk of breast cancer increased the longer a woman used HT
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