Large Danish study clears hormones in menopause, but there is a catch, says researcher
A significant study from Denmark suggests that most women can safely take hormone replacement therapy during menopause without serious health risks, although a specific group may experience extended life expectancy with hormonal supplements.
A substantial Danish study involving nearly 900,000 women has concluded that the majority can safely use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to alleviate symptoms of menopause without the increased risk of severe side effects such as breast cancer or cardiovascular diseases. Researchers emphasized that hormone therapy can be especially beneficial for a particular subset of women, who may even anticipate living an average of five years longer when on hormonal treatment. This finding has significant implications for women's health, especially regarding quality of life during menopause.
The research addresses long-standing debates and fears around HRT and its association with potential health risks. Several studies in the past have cast doubt on the safety of hormone therapy, leading to reluctance among many women to pursue these treatments. However, this large-scale study reaffirms the safety of HRT for the vast majority, while also calling attention to the fact that a focused approach should be taken for those who stand to benefit most from such therapy.
In light of these findings, health practitioners may need to reevaluate their guidelines on hormone therapy, ensuring that women who might benefit from it are not deterred by previous health warnings. The implications of this research could lead to increased discussions about menopause management and the importance of personalized treatment plans that cater to the specific needs of women, potentially improving overall health outcomes in this demographic.