Contents
How Does Hormone Therapy Affect Mammogram Results?
Published: Sep 20, 2023
Mammograms are crucial for early breast cancer detection, but hormone therapy can complicate the results. This article explores how menopausal hormone therapy impacts mammographic density and screening outcomes.
Increased Breast Density
Hormone therapy, especially combined estrogen-progestin therapy, can increase breast density. In the Women's Health Initiative study, women using combined therapy had a 4.9% increase in breast density after two years, compared to a 0.8% decrease in the placebo group. Estrogen-only therapy also increased density, but to a lesser extent (2.9% increase).
Impact on Mammogram Accuracy
Increased breast density can make it harder to detect abnormalities on mammograms. This can lead to more false positives and callback rates. By the end of the WHI study, 35% of women on combined therapy had abnormal mammograms, compared to 23% in the placebo group. The need for breast biopsies was also higher (10% vs 6.1%).
Estrogen-Only vs. Combined Therapy
While both types of hormone therapy can affect mammograms, combined therapy has a more significant impact. Estrogen-only therapy increased the rate of mammograms requiring short-term follow-up but did not increase the rate of abnormal mammograms suggestive of cancer. This difference is important for women and their doctors to consider when weighing the pros and cons of different hormone therapy options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Short-term stopping doesn't significantly improve accuracy.
Density often decreases after stopping hormone therapy.
Discuss the balance of benefits and risks with your doctor.
Some women may benefit from additional imaging like ultrasound.
Follow your doctor's recommendations, usually annually.
The Key Takeaway
While hormone therapy can complicate mammogram results, awareness and proper follow-up can help maintain effective breast cancer screening.
References
- McTiernan A, et al. J Natl Cancer Inst 2005; 97:1366.
- Chlebowski RT, et al. Arch Intern Med 2008; 168:370.
- Buist DS, et al. Ann Intern Med 2009; 150:752.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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