Estrogen replacement therapy after endometrial cancer: a survey of physicians' prescribing practice

Abstract

Objective To determine whether the prescribing practice of physicians with regard to estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) in symptomatic women with previous endometrial cancer is consistent with the available evidence.

Methods A descriptive survey was conducted among physicians in Germany, using a questionnaire containing two hypothetical cases of endometrial cancer patients (‘low-risk’ and ‘high-risk’ disease) and menopausal symptoms. Physicians were asked about their prescribing practice concerning moderate to severe menopausal symptoms.

Results Four hundred and twenty questionnaires were sent out, with an overall response rate of 39.8%; 45.6% in the ‘low-risk’ case and 75.4% in the ‘high-risk’ case (p < 0.0001) stated that ERT is contraindicated. Only 12.9% were willing to prescribe ERT; 81.9% preferred to prescribe non-estrogenic alternatives (44.8% phytoestrogens, 29.0% selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors).

Conclusion Despite the evidence that ERT does not increase the risk of recurrence of endometrial cancer, many physicians are reluctant to prescribe ERT in women suffering from moderate to severe menopausal symptoms.

Key words:

• ENDOMETRIAL CANCER
• ESTROGEN REPLACEMENT THERAPY
• HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY
• SURVEY
• PRESCRIBING PRACTICE

Conflict of interest  None of the authors report any conflict of interest.

Source of funding  Nil.