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Reading the latest reports about the possible medical benefits of estrogen therapy during menopause could produce symptoms of whiplash. Women who were earlier told estrogen therapy might cause strokes now read that it could protect some younger women from heart disease.
Setting aside the general difficulties of communicating narrow scientific nuances, the latest reports on estrogen therapy are more of an evolution than a revolution. But that can still leave people feeling puzzled, worried or even jarred.
Concerns about higher risks of breast cancer, heart attack and stroke have complicated women's decisions about hormone therapy options during menopause. At least one expert said women wanting short-term relief from hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause should find reassurance in the latest study, which reanalyzed earlier data. But other experts disagreed.
There's more possible guidance on the horizon from a follow-up study to see if the suggestion of heart benefit holds up. University of Washington and Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System physicians plan to participate in research to test the latest finding.
Based on recent history, the results likely will refine the questions patients and physicians need to ask themselves when making case-by-case decisions. That's progress, even if it's only incremental. More scientific research than ever is focused on women's health. That advance, which still has a good way to go, represents a huge and healthy change.
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