Hormone replacement therapy in endometrial cancer survivors: new perspectives after the heart and estrogen progestin replacement study and the women's health initiative

Abstract

Objective: Dramatic shifts in prescription practices during the last 30 years have left physicians confused and uncertain about the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in endometrial cancer survivors.

Materials and methods: This article reviews the published literature concerning both the safety of prescribing HRT to endometrial cancer survivors and the therapy s potential risks and benefits.

Results: Prescribing HRT to endometrial cancer survivors does not seem to be contraindicated and may even confer modest protection, depending on the doses and the specific drugs used. The potential benefits of HRT are more conflicting. Although the medical community agrees on the positive effects for bone density and relief of vasomotor symptoms, the results of our review offer no clear consensus in regard to HRT's effects on coronary heart disease, health-related quality of life, cognitive functioning, and cancer incidence.

Conclusions: Until the medical community can concur on the proper prescription practices in endometrial cancer survivors, an individualized patient-based approach must be taken.