Supporting Our Patients on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
At The Grange Medical Practice, we are committed to providing our patients with up-to-date guidance and unwavering support in managing their health, especially during times of transition like menopause. The latest insights from NICE (the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence) bring good news and further clarity around Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), helping our patients make informed choices.
Key Findings from NICE
NICE’s recent findings confirm that HRT neither shortens nor lengthens life expectancy. After a comprehensive review of the data, NICE has highlighted that, while HRT may carry some low risks, it remains a highly effective treatment option for many menopause symptoms. Here’s a quick overview of key points:
- Health Risks and Benefits: The risk of conditions such as heart disease, stroke, and ovarian cancer in HRT users is comparable to non-users. However, there is a slight increase in breast cancer risk associated with long-term use of HRT.
- Bone Health: HRT has been shown to reduce the risk of fractures related to osteoporosis, providing additional benefits for patients at risk of this bone condition.
- Guidance on Dementia: For women starting HRT before age 65, there is no additional risk of developing dementia. Starting HRT after 65 may carry a slight increase in this risk.
Treatment Options and Patient Support
NICE has introduced new guidance to assist healthcare providers in explaining HRT options more clearly, including illustrations that outline the likelihood of developing certain health conditions. This update will allow our clinicians to have more detailed, individualised conversations with each patient, helping them make informed treatment choices based on their unique health needs.
The guidance also suggests cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) as an alternative or supplementary option, especially for women over 40. This approach aims to improve emotional wellbeing and help manage menopause symptoms more holistically.
We Are Here to Help
If you’re on HRT or considering starting, please know that our team is here to provide you with the information and support you need. If you have any questions or concerns about your HRT treatment, we encourage you to reach out to us:
- Through PATCHS: For non-urgent queries or for more information on managing menopause symptoms.
- By Calling the Practice: Our team can arrange a consultation to discuss any concerns you may have, or set up a conversation with one of our clinicians or pharmacists who specialise in hormone therapy.
At The Grange Medical Practice, we’re dedicated to empowering you to make the best health choices. With a large in-house team of clinicians and pharmacists, you can feel confident that you’ll receive compassionate and expert support every step of the way.
To learn more about the recent NICE guidance on HRT, read the full article on BBC News. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch—we’re here for you.