[Postmenopausal hormone substitution--for many of for few? I. Effects of long-term hormone substitution].
Users of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are characterised by a 20-50 per cent reduction in all-cause mortality, and a 50 per cent reduction in the risk of coronary disease and osteoporotic fracture. The risk of Alzheimer's dementia or of cerebrovascular disease has also been reported to be reduced, though published findings have been inconsistent. In contrast, the risk of breast cancer or venous thrombosis is probably increased. A number of minor side-effects are associated with HRT, though hitherto their impact has received little attention. Although randomised controlled studies have been conducted to assess relationship between HRT and risk factors for disease, no such studies of relationship between long-term HRT and myocardial infarction, osteoporotic fractures or mortality have been performed in large series. Selection bias may thus explain part of the reported beneficial effects of HRT on morbidity and mortality found in observational studies.
Berntsen
G K
GK
Institutt for Samfunnsmedisin, Universitetet i Tromsø.
Tollan
A
A
Fønnebø
V
V
D000368:Aged; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000517:prevention & control; D003657:Decision Making; D015914:Estrogen Replacement Therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D018579:Patient Selection; D012307:Risk Factors