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Postmenopausal hormone use and cholecystectomy in a large prospective study
F Grodstein1, G A Colditz, M J Stampfer
1Channing Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Postmenopausal hormone use significantly increases the risk of cholecystectomy, or gallbladder removal surgery. This risk escalates with longer duration and higher estrogen doses, persisting even after discontinuation.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Postmenopausal hormone therapy is widely used for symptom management.
- Gallbladder disease, including cholecystectomy, is a common surgical procedure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between postmenopausal hormone use and the risk of undergoing cholecystectomy.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study involving 54,845 US nurses followed for 8 years.
- Data on hormone use and cholecystectomy collected via mailed questionnaires.
- Statistical analysis adjusted for confounding factors.
Main Results:
- Current postmenopausal hormone users had a 2.1-fold increased risk of cholecystectomy compared to never-users.
- Risk increased with duration of use and estrogen dose.
- A small but persistent increased risk was observed even years after discontinuing hormone therapy.
Conclusions:
- Postmenopausal hormone use is associated with a significantly elevated risk of cholecystectomy.
- Healthcare providers and patients should weigh these risks against the benefits when considering hormone therapy.