Hormones and heart - a help or a harm? The influence of hormone replacement therapy on cardiovascular health

Abstract:

Discussions over the effect of hormone replacement therapy (HRC) on the heart in postmenopausal women have been ongoing for many years. Early observational studies have shown beneficial effects in terms of reduction in coronary disease and total mortality. The initial WHI (Women’s Health Initiative) results have shown an increased risk of coronary disease and breast cancer, resulting in a drastic decrease in the HRC administration. Subsequent WHI studies, including age and time elapsed from menopause to the onset of therapy, show affirmative results. The so called timehypothesis has been established, stating the therapy is beneficial when introduced in women under the age of 60 and within 10 years from the menopause. Following the WHI study, several clinical and epidemiological studies have been published, all showing a reduction in the risk of coronary disease and overall mortality when HRC is administered to young postmenopausal women with no prior cardiovascular diseases.

Key words:
coronary disease; hormone replacement therapy; primary prevention; WHI study