There is strong evidence to show hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increases the risk of breast cancer. In a landmark study, women were on the HRT five years and showed a relative risk of 2.5 for breast cancer. This means women who take HRT have a 250 percent greater chance of getting breast cancer than if they didn't take the drug.
There are other risks of taking HRT as well. The same study showed women at increased risk of gallbladder disease and blood clots. It's best to sit down with your doctor and assess your risk of breast cancer recurring before taking HRT. You can also take a test on-line to find out your risk. Go to:
http://www.halls.md/breast/riskcom.htm. The results are estimates and should not be used to make medical decisions.
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