HRT Factsheet

what is the background on HRT, breast cancer and heart disease?

A leading article in the British Medical Journal was published earlier this year which highlighted a small increase in the risk of developing breast cancer as a result of taking HRT. This was discussed with gynaecologists and breast cancer colleagues, and the consensus was that the increase risk was small, statistical and could be disregarded.

We now have a much more convincing report from the United States which has hit the headlines.

What is the Present situation?

There is now evidence that HRT does increase the risk of breast cancer to a small extent and also the heart, affecting the coronary arteries. This is disappointing and worrying, particularly so because the previously perceived wisdom was that HRT had a protective affect on the heart.

What Should be Done Now?

• HRT should only be prescribed on clear clinical grounds such as osteoporosis and disabling menopausal symptoms.
• The medication should be given for a maximum of three years at the end of which time it should be subjected to clinical review.
• Breast cancer surveillance should continue on a two yearly recall basis, except that women taking HRT should now have annual mammograms.
• HRT should not be given for general well-being enhancement or complexion improvement.

What Should Patients Do Now?

Nothing, for the moment; your situation will be reviewed when the next prescription will be issued.

If you have any misgivings in respect of the above points, you should come and discuss this in consultation. Naturally, should the situation change in the light of further evidence, then this factfile will be amended accordingly.

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