Does MHT/HRT increase your risk of cancer?
November 10, 2022
By Jennifer Vander Zalm
MYTH
Hormone therapy for treatment of menopausal symptoms was thought to increase the risk of a woman’s chance of breast cancer, stroke and blood clots. This evidence has been re-evaluated, and MHT using estrogen has been shown to be safe and effective. [6] [8] What is now known is:
- MHT remains the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms and genitourinary syndromes of menopause and has been shown to prevent bone loss and fracture.
- The risks of MHT differ depending on the type of hormones, their dose, duration of use, route of administration, timing of initiation, and whether progestogen is used.
- Treatment should be individualized to identify the most appropriate MHT type, dose, formulation, route of administration, and duration of use.
- MHT must use the best available evidence to maximize the benefits and minimize the risks.
- MHT needs periodic reevaluation for the benefits and risks of continuing or discontinuing MHT.
Herstasis Blogs
Welcome to Herstasis Health Blogs. When women ask questions about their experiences with the menopausal transition, we listen! These blogs are full of good content that is relevant, helpful, and always developed with current science-based information.
We invite you to read and enjoy (and learn a few things at the same time)!
