Hormone therapy (HT) for menopause neither harms nor improves long-term cognitive function, according to recent research from the Kronos Early Estrogen Prevention Study (KEEPS) Continuation study.

During menopause, women experience a significant drop in estrogen levels, leading to symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Hormone therapy can help manage these symptoms effectively.

Key Research Findings:

• Women who received hormonal therapy showed similar cognitive outcomes to those who took placebos after 10 years
• Study focused on healthy, recently postmenopausal women with low cardiovascular disease risk
• Participants received either a placebo, transdermal estradiol patch, or oral conjugated equine estrogens, plus micronized progesterone
• Treatment lasted 4 years, with follow-up assessment after 10 years

Benefits of Short-Term Hormone Therapy:

• Reduces hot flashes and night sweats
• Improves sleep quality
• Helps with mood regulation
• Maintains urogenital health
• May improve bone health (not FDA approved)

Study Limitations:

• Limited participant diversity (mostly white women)
• Specific inclusion criteria (excluded women with high blood pressure or smokers)
• Average participant age was 52
• Only included women with low cardiovascular disease risk
• One-time assessment at 10-year follow-up

Expert Insights:

• Short-term HT appears safe for cognitive function
• Timing of therapy is crucial for effectiveness
• Individual assessment needed to determine suitability
• Long-term HT may lower Alzheimer's risk
• Should be considered first-line therapy for appropriate patients

Patients should consult healthcare providers to discuss HT suitability, considering timing, dosage, administration route, and treatment duration.

Related Articles

Previous Articles