Hormone replacement therapy after breast cancer and a review of the therapeutic properties of phyto-estrogens

Abstract

After breast cancer, about 10% of women have severe, persistent menopausal symptoms, and could benefit from the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Its use is, however, controversial for fear of stimulating tumor growth or recurrence. The effect of continuous combined estrogen-progestin therapy on tumor recurrence and mortality was investigated in a retrospective, matched case-control study. A total of 901 breast cancer patients, of whom 90 had taken estrogen, mostly in combination with progestin, were studied. The results suggest that continuous combined HRT using a moderate dose of progestin appears to be a safe form of treatment for menopausal symptoms after breast cancer.

Non-HRT treatments for breast cancer-related symptoms are also considered and found to have application in a variety of situations. The nature of phyto-estrogens is briefly explained and their potential as therapy for symptoms and disease association with breast cancer explored.

Key Words:

• HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY
• BREAST CANCER
• MENOPAUSE
• ESTROGENS
• PROGESTINS
• PHYTO-ESTROGENS