In the continuing debate over the risks versus the benefits of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT), a new study adds more weight to the positive side of the scales. Researchers at the University of Southern California monitored over 8,500 postmenopausal women and discovered that those who at some time had undergone ERT lived an average of 1 1/2 years longer than those who never did. The researchers also found that women who underwent long-term ERT—at least 15 years—lived up to 3 years longer than women who never had such therapy. The results of this study appear to support the many medical experts who are now maintaining that the benefits of ERT outweigh the risks.
Recent studies suggest that low dose estrogen replacement therapy may not be associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. In the study at U.S.C., women who underwent ERT and had any type of cancer were no more likely to die of the disease than those who did not undergo ERT. However, many experts believe that taking estrogen alone causes a slight increase in the risk of cancer of the uterus. But when progestin, a synthetic form of progesterone, is given in addition to estrogen, the risk is reduced. However, such combination therapy can cause continuation of periodic spotting.
Although much of the recent news about ERT is reassuring, the decision to undergo the therapy is still a highly personal one for most women. Experts also warn that ERT is not appropriate for everyone.
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