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Proton Therapy Delivery and Its Clinical Application in Select Solid Tumor Malignancies
Published on: February 6, 2019
Breast cancer and hormonal therapy
Peter Conner1, Eva Lundström, Bo von Schoultz
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology
|August 5, 2008
Summary
Combined estrogen/progestogen therapy increases breast cancer risk, with risks becoming significant after 4-5 years. Estrogen alone appears safer, while new treatments aim for breast safety and endometrial protection.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Women's Health
Background:
- Combined hormone therapy (estrogen/progestogen) is used for menopausal symptoms.
- Estrogen therapy alone has demonstrated safety, but requires progestogen for endometrial protection.
- Concerns exist regarding the impact of combined hormone therapy on breast cancer risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the evidence on breast cancer risk associated with combined estrogen/progestogen therapy.
- To compare the risks of combined therapy versus estrogen-alone therapy.
- To discuss the safety profile of current and emerging hormone therapies.
Main Methods:
- Review of evidence from randomized-controlled trials (RCTs).
- Analysis of data from observational studies.
- Assessment of risk progression over time with combined therapy.
Main Results:
- RCTs indicate an increased breast cancer risk with combined estrogen/progestogen use compared to estrogen alone.
- Observational studies suggest slightly higher, yet modest, risks, especially after long-term use.
- Risk with combined therapy increases gradually, becoming statistically significant after 4-5 years.
Conclusions:
- Combined estrogen/progestogen therapy is associated with a modest but significant increase in breast cancer risk.
- Estrogen-alone therapy is generally considered safer regarding breast cancer risk.
- Future therapeutic developments aim to enhance endometrial protection while ensuring breast safety.
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