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A comprehensive new report on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the development of breast cancer has been published. This leaflet explains what the research shows and what it means for you.
HRT is effective in relieving unpleasant symptoms of the menopause and, when taken for several years prevents fractures which are caused by thinning of the bones (osteoporosis).
It lessens the risk of some cancers and may delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. It does not lessen the risk of heart attack or stroke.
For some time it has been thought possible that more cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women who use HRT than in those who do not. The new research confirms this. The chances of developing breast cancer are higher for those who use for HRT for many years. Those who use it for a short period around the menopause are hardly affected.
For women aged 50 not using HRT, about 45 in every 1000 will have cancer diagnosed over the next 20 years.
| Extra Breast cancers in combined (oestrogen and progestogen) HRT users (above the 45 occurring in non-users, over 20 years): | |
|---|---|
| 5 years use: | 6 extra cases of breast cancer per 1000 patients |
| 10 years use: | 19 extra cases of breast cancer per 1000 |
| Extra Breast cancers in women (usually those who have had hysterectomy) using oestrogen-only preparation: | |
|---|---|
| 5 years use: | 1-2 extra cases of breast cancer per 1000 patients |
| 10 years use: | 5 extra cases of breast cancer per 1000 |
The extra chance of developing breast cancer on HRT does not persist beyond about 5 years after stopping treatment.
If you are on HRT this research does not mean that you need to stop taking it. If you are concerned and want to know more, you should make a routine non-urgent appointment with your doctor or practice nurse, or arrange a convenient time to discuss this on the 'phone.
All women, and especially those on HRT, should be aware of any changes that occur in their breasts, and report them to their doctor. All women aged between 50 and 64 are invited to have regular, three yearly, mammograms, and those 65 and over may have them on request.
This information is based on the advice issued by the Medicines Control Agency of the UK Government - August 2003.
Updated August 2003.
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