What does the FDA’s new update say?
For decades, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) It has been surrounded by a stigma that has led thousands of women to suffer in silence from the symptoms of menopause. The main fear: the belief that the use of estrogen drastically increases the risk of breast cancer. However, the medical landscape has taken a historic turn.
In this study evening, Dr. Roberto Garcia, a specialist in oncological surgery, discusses the FDA’s recent decision to eliminate “black labeling” that warned about the use of hormones in peri- and menopausal patients.
Why did the FDA change its stance on estrogen?
The FDA’s update is not an isolated event, but the response to years of evidence accumulated by various prestigious institutions, such as the British Menopause Society, the European Society and the International Menopause Society.
These organizations have shown, through subgroup analyses, that the risk is not widespread and that hormone treatment has been unfairly labeled as “the bad guy in the movie.”
Who can benefit from HRT without cancer risk?
The key to using hormone replacement therapy safely lies in the proper selection of the patient. According to current studies, there is a “window of opportunity” where the benefits far outweigh the risks:
- Age: Women under 60 years of age.
- Time of onset: Women who are less than 10 years old from menopause.
For these patients, the use of hormones to treat symptoms such as hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings can be done without a significant increase in cancer risk.
The importance of personalized medical selection
It is vital to understand that this news does not mean that the risk is non-existent for all people, but that HRT must be individualized. Every woman has a unique metabolic and genetic profile. Therefore, the role of the gynecologist or general practitioner is essential to choose the patient who will really benefit from the treatment without compromising her oncological health.
Conclusion: Medicine evolves to give us a better quality of life. If you’re in menopause, don’t let misinformation or fear from the past stop you from seeking relief. Consult with your specialist about this new update and find out if you are a candidate for safe hormone treatment.
