New Research Suggests HRT May Lower Heart Risks

Timing of hormone therapy seems to be key, with younger women seeing benefit

By Amanda Gardner
HealthDay Reporter

WEDNESDAY, Oct. 10 (HealthDay News) -- New research suggests that women who take hormone replacement therapy in the early stages of menopause may have a reduced risk of heart attack, heart failure or dying.

This apparent benefit comes without a heightened risk of cancer or blood clots, the Danish researchers said. These health risks have long been a concern of menopausal women and their doctors when considering hormone therapy.

The study, published Oct. 9 in the BMJ, even found evidence of a trend toward a lower risk of breast cancer, although this was not statistically significant, said study author Dr. Louise Lind Schierbeck.