New
research shows that women who have hormone replacement therapy
are significantly more likely to develop a range of common
cancers.
The
Guardian reported, on 19th April 2007, on an authoritative study
by Professor Valerie Beral and colleagues from Oxford
University, which reveals that those who take HRT for five years
or more are at increased risk of developing breast and ovarian
cancers.
Professor Beral wrote that "In total ovarian, endometrial and
breast cancer account for 39% of all cancers registered in women
in the UK. The total incidence of these three cancers in the
study population is 63% higher in current users of HRT than in
never users".
She
continued that when women stop taking HRT, their risk returns to
normal.
For
all its drawbacks, HRT is very effective in promoting stronger
bones in elderly women with osteoporosis who are at risk
of fractures if they fall. Professor Beral said "My personal
view is that the sensible thing is to take HRT when you are 80.
My mother is 90 and has had a lot of fractures. I was very happy
to say to my mother take HRT at 90. What mattered at that point
was her quality of life. If she has breast cancer when she is 95
- so what?"
Medical Director of Cancer Research UK, Professor John Toy,
said: "Women should think very carefully about whether to take
HRT. And Women who choose to take HRT should do so for clear
medical need and for the shortest possible time."
Related newsletter, with alternative suggestions:
Natural Hormone Balance - Should you
take HRT or the Alternative Route?
Also see:
Peruvian Maca
