HRT reduces risk after breast cancer diagnosis
18 October 2002
Women who use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after diagnosis of breast cancer do not have increased risk of recurrence or death, but have significantly reduced risks, an Australian study has found.
'These results need to be confirmed in a randomised trial before HRT can be advocated for all women who have had breast cancer,' researchers from Sydney's Royal Hospital for Women, Macquarie and NSW universities warned (Medical Journal of Australia 2002; 177: 347-51).
'We believe the current practice of withholding HRT from women with breast cancer who suffer menopausal symptoms may need review.'
HRT was probably safe for breast cancer patients in the short term but ongoing trials would determine longer-term safety, an editorial said.
The study followed 1122 women with primary invasive breast cancer for up to 36 years, including 286 women who used HRT after diagnosis to treat menopausal symptoms.
Last Reviewed: 18 October 2002
- 1. Medical Observer Weekly 18/10/02
