Study Suggests HRT Increases Stroke Risk
By MedHeadlines • Apr 29th, 2008 • Category: Drugs, Neurology, Osteoporosis, Prevention, Stroke, Women's HealthA study published this week in the Archives of Internal Medicine suggests that postmenopausal women who take hormone therapy have an increased risk of stroke. The study, which was conducted by Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, evaluated the stroke risk associated with HRT n 121,700 women. Compared to women who had never used hormones, women currently taking hormone therapy had an increased risk for stroke (39 percent for those taking estrogen and 27 percent for those taking estrogen with progestin).
The pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy have been the subject of much debate and confusion in recent years. During menopause, the ovaries decrease production of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. This decline in hormones puts a permanent end to menstruation and fertility and can also cause hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances and urinary problems. A woman is considered to have reached menopause when she has not had a period for 12 consecutive months.
“Our findings indicate that hormone therapy is associated with an increased risk of stroke, regardless of the hormone regimen or the timing of hormone therapy initiation,” the study’s authors said. As researchers learn more about hormone therapy and other menopausal treatments, recommendations may change. Women are encouraged to review postmenopausal treatments with their physicians on an ongoing basis to determine if HRT is appropriate for them.
