Can we improve compliance with long-term HRT?

Area of Science:

• Preventive medicine
• Women's health
• Cardiovascular health
• Bone health

Background:

• Osteoporosis and heart disease are significant health concerns for women.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common treatment with potential benefits and risks.
• Effective strategies are needed to increase awareness and adherence to preventive measures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a health education and screening clinic on osteoporosis and heart disease prevention strategies.
• To assess the utilization and outcomes of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) among women aged 40-60.
• To identify factors influencing HRT use and adherence.

Main Methods:

• A dedicated clinic was established offering education and screening to women aged 40-60.
• Screening and supervision of HRT users were conducted weekly.
• Data collected through clinic registers and postal questionnaires analyzed HRT use, duration, and reasons for discontinuation.

Main Results:

• The clinic served 1322 women aged 40-60, with 260 current HRT users (20%).
• 51.5% of eligible patients attended the health education clinic.
• Clinic attendees showed higher HRT use (25%) compared to non-attenders (10.8%).
• Long-term HRT compliance ranged from 84% to 92% over 5 years.
• Primary reasons for stopping HRT included anxiety about side effects (breast cancer) and bleeding.

Conclusions:

• A targeted health education and screening clinic can effectively increase awareness and utilization of preventive strategies like HRT.
• Patient education and ongoing supervision are crucial for maintaining compliance with long-term HRT.
• Addressing patient concerns regarding side effects is essential for improving treatment adherence.