A recent scientific study, printed in JAMA (Journal of American Medical Association), sheds new light on the controversy over menopause and treatment with hormonal replacement therapy (HRT).
Over 16,000 postmenopausal women, ages 50 to 79, were randomly assigned into two groups. One group received oral estrogen (conjugated equine) 0.625 mg with medroxy-progesterone 2.5 mg; the other group a placebo (“sugar pill”). With a mean follow-up of 11 years (83 percent of the original participants), results were startling. Women taking the estrogen and progesterone treatment were definitely at a higher risk of developing breast cancer.
Currently, 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer during their lifetime. Knowing the result of this recent JAMA article, women need to be informed about this additional real risk of developing breast cancer if taking or contemplating HRT.
Women already on HRT should consult with their doctor with reference to individual risks and treatment options. Do you still need to take hormones? If so, for how long? Could the dose of the hormones be decreased? Would a change to a topical hormone cream be a viable option? Anti-depressants can also diminish many symptoms of menopause. Consider a consultation with a Naturopathic doctor.
Besides prescription medications, there are many “natural” treatments and dietary options that can significantly decrease symptoms of menopause. Estroven can be purchased over-the-counter, without a prescription. This product is a combination of an herb, Black Cohosh, and soy. Approximately 90 percent of women in my practice who have taken this medication, report significant symptom improvement. In addition, vitamin E (400 IU/day) can help lessen hot flashes.
Diet also can play a significant role in the treatment of menopausal symptoms. Consider consuming more foods that contain natural estrogens called Phytoestrogens. Examples include apples, tomatoes, potatoes, red beans, peas, eggs, garlic and soy. Avoid or minimize foods and beverages that are known to trigger hot flashes, such as spicy foods, chocolate, caffeine and beverages containing alcohol.
In addition, decrease your daily calorie intake by 200 to 400 calories a day. This helps offset the natural weight gain tendency that can occur with menopause. Know your BMI (body mass index) and maintain your ideal weight range by exercising 30 minutes, 5 to 7 days a week. Lastly, if you smoke, stop. Smoking not only increases hot flashes, but it can cause earlier menopause in women.
Dr. Linda Petter, of Auburn, can be heard on KOMO TV/Newsradio (1000 AM & 97.7 FM) every Sunday live at 7:45 a.m. Dr. Petter is Chief of the Department of Family Practice at St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way. Her books, “Healthcare On a Budget” and “Common Medical Sense”, are available on Amazon.com.
