MHRA warns on HRT users' risk of breast cancer

The UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA is warning women who are current or past users of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to treat symptoms of the menopause are reminded to be vigilant for signs of breast cancer, even after stopping HRT.

This is because a new study, published by The Lancet, has confirmed that women who use HRT for longer than 1 year have a higher risk of breast cancer than women who never use HRT. This known risk of breast cancer gets lower once HRT is stopped, but the new study shows some increased risk remains for more than 10 years compared to women who have never used HRT. The increased risk of breast cancer is seen with all types of HRT, except for topical HRT applied directly onto or into the vagina.

There is no need for urgent action but women who use, or are planning to use, HRT should be aware of these new findings when considering their HRT use at their next routine appointment, the Agency says. Women who have previously used HRT should be vigilant for signs of breast cancer and see a doctor if they notice any changes in their breasts. It is also important for all women to go to breast screening when invited.