Discussing breast cancer and hormone replacement therapy with women

Cleve Clin J Med. 2002 Nov;69(11):838, 840, 843-4 passim. doi: 10.3949/ccjm.69.11.838.

Abstract

Although the results of the Women's Health Initiative showed an increased risk of breast cancer in women taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the absolute risk is very low. We discuss limitations of the study, questions that remain, and how to discuss the study with women at average risk and high risk for breast cancer.

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Breast Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Estrogen Replacement Therapy / adverse effects*
  • Estrogens, Conjugated (USP) / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Genetic Predisposition to Disease
  • Humans
  • Medroxyprogesterone Acetate / adverse effects
  • Models, Statistical
  • Patient Education as Topic*
  • Postmenopause
  • Progesterone Congeners / adverse effects
  • Prognosis
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Research Design*
  • Risk Assessment

Substances

  • Estrogens, Conjugated (USP)
  • Progesterone Congeners
  • Medroxyprogesterone Acetate