Menopause triggers hormonal changes, causing symptoms like hot flashes and mood fluctuations. Hormone replacement therapy manages these, but risks include increased breast cancer. European Medicines Agency emphasises personalised treatment.
FREMONT, CA: Menopause, a natural phase marking the cessation of menstruation in women, triggers a cascade of hormonal shifts. These shifts often manifest in symptoms such as hot flashes, nocturnal perspiration, vaginal dryness, and mood fluctuations. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a viable option for symptom management, offering potential improvements in overall well-being and quality of life.
In Europe, HRT stands as a valuable option for alleviating menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances while also offering potential preventive benefits against osteoporosis, a degenerative bone condition. Despite its advantages, HRT is accompanied by notable risks, primarily an increased potential for breast cancer, especially evident in combined estrogen and progestogen therapies. However, this risk is contingent upon factors like duration of use, dosage, and individual health conditions. Additionally, certain types of HRT pose a slight elevation in the risk of blood clot formation. Across European nations, the utilisation of HRT exhibits considerable variation; while countries like France demonstrate high adoption rates, others witness lower uptake, potentially attributable to apprehensions or limited awareness. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has updated recommendations to guide clinical practice, offering a nuanced understanding of breast cancer risk following approximately three years of HRT use. Emphasising the importance of tailored treatment approaches and regular monitoring, these guidelines aim to optimise the safety and efficacy of HRT utilisation.
