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The Real Truth About Estrogen and Breast Cancer

  • Writer: Dr. Jackson
    Dr. Jackson
  • Sep 19
  • 2 min read

Estrogen is often blamed for increasing breast cancer risk, but is that claim supported by science — or outdated fear?


Newer data from two of the largest randomized trials ever conducted tell a different story, especially when it comes to estrogen-only therapy (used by women who’ve had a hysterectomy). The findings may surprise you — and could change how you think about your options.


Estrogen and Breast Cancer

What the Research Shows


The WHI trials followed thousands of women for up to 20 years. Here’s what they found:

  • Women on estrogen-only therapy (ET) had a 23% lower risk of developing breast cancer.

  • They also had a 44% lower risk of dying from breast cancer.

  • These benefits were strongest in women who started therapy close to menopause.



Why the Confusion?


  • The increased breast cancer risk originally reported was primarily seen in women on combined estrogen and synthetic progestin (EPT) — not estrogen alone.

  • Specifically, the culprit appears to be medroxyprogesterone acetate, a synthetic progestin rarely used today.

  • Modern protocols use micronized bioidentical progesterone, which has a safer profile and does not appear to carry the same risks.



Who Should Consider Estrogen-Only Therapy?


  • Women who have had a hysterectomy and are in their 40s, 50s, or early 60s

  • Women experiencing hot flashes, night sweats, or vaginal dryness

  • Those concerned about long-term bone, brain, or cardiovascular health

If you’ve been told that hormone therapy automatically increases your breast cancer risk, it’s time to take a closer look.


Estrogen and Breast Cancer

Bottom Line


Estrogen-only therapy has been unfairly vilified for years. The science now shows that, in the right women, it may actually lower the risk of breast cancer. If you’ve had a hysterectomy and are suffering with menopause symptoms, this could be a powerful, safe option for you.


Listen to Dr Jackson go into detail about this topic!  You can hear the full episode on her podcast, Ageless and Outrageous.  Be sure to like and follow so you don’t miss an episode!

Ageless and Outrageous

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At Foundations at Maitland, in Maitland FL, we offer a full range of non-surgical treatments to help you reach your aesthetic, wellness, and sexual goals.  Our providers are highly trained and experienced.  We are led by our double-board certified surgeon, Dr Kristin Jackson, who has personally developed all treatment protocols and is closely involved in the day-to-day operations of our medical spa.  With her extensive training in all non-surgical cosmetic treatments as well as over 20 years of surgical experience, Dr Jackson is uniquely qualified to ensure our medical spa provides you with the highest standards of quality care and safety.


If you are looking for hormone replacement doctors or anti-aging doctors near you, we can help!  Contact us today for your complimentary consultation!


 
 
 

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