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[Estrogen replacement therapy and breast cancer]
Kjersti Bakken1, Elin Alsaker, Anne Elise Eggen
1Institutt for samfunnsmedisin, Universitetet i Tromsø, 9037 Tromsø. kjersti.bakken@ism.uit.no
Summary
Current hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use is linked to a significantly increased risk of breast cancer in Norwegian postmenopausal women. Limiting HRT use and duration is recommended to mitigate this risk.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) sales and breast cancer incidence have risen in Norway.
- A study investigated the association between HRT use and breast cancer risk in a Norwegian cohort.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use and breast cancer risk.
- To assess the impact of HRT on breast cancer incidence in Norwegian postmenopausal women.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Norwegian Women and Cancer (NOWAC) study, a national, population-based cohort.
- Included 31,451 postmenopausal women aged 45-64 with data on HRT, lifestyle, and reproduction.
- Followed participants to track breast cancer development.
Main Results:
- Current HRT users showed an adjusted relative risk of 2.1 for breast cancer (95% CI 1.5-2.5).
- Continuous estrogen/progestagen regimens increased risk more than sequential regimens; longer duration further elevated risk (p<0.0001).
- HRT use accounted for an estimated 27% of breast cancer cases in the study population, approximately 300 annual cases.
Conclusions:
- Current HRT use is a significant factor in the rising breast cancer rates among Norwegian postmenopausal women.
- HRT should be reserved for women with severe vasomotor symptoms, with individualized, short-term treatment.
- Tailoring dosage based on risk-benefit analysis and minimizing treatment duration are crucial.