Breast cancer and hormone replacement therapy
In 2002, an American clinical trial found a possible link between breast cancer and the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Many menopausal women subsequently stopped their treatment. Did they do the right thing?
Canadian study corroborates link between breast cancer and HRT
In all likelihood, hormone replacement therapy, if used over a long period, could seriously compromise the health of some women. In fact, in September 2010, a study conducted by the Canadian Cancer Society revealed, once more, the existence of a link between breast cancer and HRT.
“The Canadian Cancer Society research shows that between 2002 and 2004, the breast cancer incidence rate dropped by nearly 10 per cent among Canadian women aged 50-69. This coincided with a more than 50 per cent drop in the number of women in the same age group taking HRT between 2002 and 2004. (HRT use dropped from almost 13 per cent to five per cent). This is the largest age group of HRT users in Canada.” *
Given these results, the Canadian Cancer Society recommends that women avoid taking HRT unless no other measures have relieved their severe menopausal symptoms.
What you should know!
If a woman decides to use HRT, she should take the lowest effective dose over the shortest possible time period.
Pharmacy services
Do you have questions about hormone replacement therapy? Talk to your pharmacist. He’s a reliable source of information!
* Source : http://www.cancer.ca/
The pharmacy services presented in this section are offered by pharmacist owners who are affiliated with Uniprix. The pharmacists are solely responsible for the professional activities carried out during the practice of pharmacy. These services are offered in participating pharmacies only. Certain fees and conditions may apply.
* The information contained herein is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide complete information on the subject matter or to replace the advice of a health professional. This information does not constitute medical consultation, diagnosis or opinion and should not be interpreted as such. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions about your health, medications or treatment.