RISK AND RISK REDUCTION > Established risk factors >
Hormone replacement therapy
ESTABLISHED RISK FACTORS
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NON-MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS |
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MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS |
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HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a hormone treatment intended for women who have reached the age of menopause. The goal of HRT is to reverse the decrease in levels of reproductive hormones that occurs at menopause. Menopausal women may be prescribed HRT containing only the hormone estrogen, or combination HRT that contains estrogen and progesterone.
There are two main reasons for taking HRT. First, HRT can reduce or relieve some of the symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, insomnia, and night sweats. Second, HRT can reduce the risk for certain conditions, such as osteoporosis (weakening of the bones). However, HRT is associated with increased risk for other conditions, including stroke.
Evidence also suggests that HRT can increase the risk for breast cancer. For short-term HRT that lasts less than five years, the increase is small. The breast cancer risk increase is greater when HRT is taken for a period of more than five years. The risk increase is also greater with combination HRT, as compared to estrogen-only HRT.
The good news is that when a woman stops HRT, her risk for breast cancer returns to approximately what it was before starting HRT.
Women with significant risk factors for breast cancer may choose to avoid HRT or use it only for a short period of time.
Whether or not to take HRT is a complex decision. Discussing the benefits and risks with a doctor can help you decide if HRT is right for you.
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