Hormone replacement therapy for women previously treated for endometrial cancer Original paper
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
OverviewHormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), also widely known as Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), refers to the medical use of hormones, primarily estrogen, with or without a progestogen, to replace the natural decline in ovarian hormone production that occurs during the menopausal transition.[1] The therapy is intended to alleviate the diverse symptoms caused by falling estrogen levels […]
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Divine Aleru
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
What was studied?
This review investigates the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in women previously treated for endometrial cancer. Specifically, it aims to evaluate the efficacy of HRT in relieving menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, in these women. The study also explores the potential risks associated with HRT use, particularly whether it might increase the risk of cancer recurrence or the development of new malignancies. The review includes data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and evaluates safety and symptom relief outcomes in women who have undergone surgical treatment for early-stage endometrial cancer.
Who was studied?
The review focuses on women who had been treated for endometrial cancer, particularly those with early-stage disease (stage I and II). Participants included in the studies had undergone hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries) as part of their treatment. Women in these studies were often experiencing menopausal symptoms, either as a result of early menopause induced by cancer treatment or as a continuation of natural menopause. The review only included studies that addressed HRT use in these women and its potential risks and benefits.
Most important findings
The review identified a single RCT that compared the use of estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) to a placebo in women previously treated for early-stage endometrial cancer. The study showed no significant difference in the risk of tumor recurrence between the two groups, though the risk ratio (RR) was 1.17, indicating a slightly higher risk of recurrence in the HRT group, though this result was not statistically significant. There was no difference in the incidence of new cancers between the groups, although the data on this outcome were limited. The study also found no significant difference in overall survival or progression-free survival between the HRT and placebo groups. The quality of the evidence was considered very low due to the small sample size, risk of bias, and the early termination of the study due to recruitment challenges.
Key implications
The findings suggest that there is currently insufficient evidence to definitively guide clinical decision-making regarding HRT use in women who have been treated for early-stage endometrial cancer. While the single included RCT showed no clear evidence that HRT increases the risk of recurrence, the study was underpowered and had several methodological issues. Consequently, the use of HRT in this context should be individualized, considering the woman’s menopausal symptoms, preferences, and the uncertainty surrounding the risks and benefits. More robust trials are needed to clarify whether HRT can be safely used for symptom relief without adversely affecting cancer outcomes in these patients.
Menopausal hot flashes are one of the most common and disruptive symptoms that women experience during the transition to menopause. Characterized by sudden sensations of heat, sweating, and flushing, hot flashes can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life, causing sleep disturbances, mood swings, and even long-term health consequences. Understanding the complex mechanisms behind hot flashes, as well as the role of microbiome-targeted therapies, offers new avenues for improving menopausal health.