Research on hormone therapy and its effects. Covers menopause symptom relief, bronchiectasis risk, dementia links, and Alzheimer's risk.
A new study finds that estrogen-only therapy does not increase the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women, contradicting previous findings. In contrast, hormone therapy combining estrogen and progestin was linked to a 26% higher risk of breast cancer.
Researchers found that chemotherapy improvements reduced recurrence risk by 21-55% in ER-negative tumors, while 9-26% in ER-positive tumors. This suggests that newer chemotherapies offer substantial benefits for patients with ER-negative disease.
Women taking estrogen had fewer breast cancer tumors, but the difference was not statistically significant. Participants also underwent more mammograms and biopsies, which may be related to changes in breast tissue.
A study analyzing data from the Women's Health Initiative found that postmenopausal hormone therapy may increase the risk of developing venous thromboembolism, particularly in women with higher physical activity levels and lower HDL cholesterol. The risk was significantly increased for deep vein thrombosis, but not for pulmonary embolism.
A new study from UNC Health Care suggests that loss of function in the SOCS2 gene may lead to colon polyps in individuals with excessive growth hormone. The research also identifies a possible molecular marker for predicting risk, which could inform growth hormone therapy for gastrointestinal conditions.
Researchers found a higher risk of developing lobular and tubular breast cancer in women taking HRT, with combined HRT increasing the risk even more. No increase in ductal breast cancer risk was observed, and some cancers were more hormone-receptive than others.
A recent study published by the Mayo Clinic found that MPA was more effective than venlafaxine in reducing hot flashes by 79% versus 55%. The single dose of MPA showed long-lasting benefits, with many patients still experiencing a 90% reduction in symptoms after six months.
A new study found that androgen deprivation therapy is ineffective in preventing the spread of localized prostate cancer, despite its increasing use among men with non-spreading disease. Researchers suggest that men may endure significant side effects for uncertain benefits.
Researchers found that a common osteoporosis treatment helped men with prostate cancer recover significant bone mass after two years of androgen deprivation therapy. The study suggests that bone density tests should be encouraged for men at risk, and bone-preserving therapy could prevent debilitating fractures.
Researchers found that administration of a bisphosphonate called zoledronic acid every three months significantly increased bone density in men with advanced prostate cancer. The study supports guidelines for monitoring bone density and initiating treatment to prevent fractures.
The study found a small but significant increase in hip bone density among women taking calcium combined with vitamin D. However, the supplements had no detectable effect on colorectal cancer incidence or spine fractures.
A large clinical trial found that estrogen therapy did not significantly reduce the risk of coronary heart disease in postmenopausal women. However, there was a suggestion of lower risk in women aged 50-59 years, and fewer cases of revascularization and combined endpoints were reported among those taking estrogen.
A new study from UCSD found that macrophage signaling can activate processes in both cancer cells and immune cells, altering the activity of androgen antagonists and allowing tumor growth. The research identifies a novel binding site on steroid receptors that makes them responsive to inflammatory signals.
A study of 93 critically ill patients found that hydrocortisone supplementation improved ventilator weaning success rates, especially in those with renal insufficiency. The treatment reduced mortality and morbidity in mechanically ventilated patients with adrenal insufficiency.
A new study reveals that high fitness levels can enhance the effects of short-term hormone treatment and offset declines associated with long-term use. Researchers analyzed brain tissue volume in 54 postmenopausal women and found a significant association between higher fitness levels and greater tissue volume in key areas.
Belgian and Italian researchers developed a new imaging technique that can predict breast cancer patients' response to hormonal treatment with high accuracy. The technique uses 99mTc-depreotide scintigraphy to assess hormone sensitivity in tumors, allowing for early selection of patients likely to benefit from hormonal therapy.
Researchers have discovered a new treatment option for thyroid cancer that allows patients to continue their thyroid hormone replacement therapy while undergoing radioiodine treatment, reducing unpleasant side effects. This breakthrough could improve the overall quality of life for thyroid cancer patients during treatment.
Researchers found that testosterone therapy significantly improved quality-of-life scores in men with mild Alzheimer's disease. However, the study's results do not warrant routine treatment and require further investigation before clinical decisions can be made.
Research suggests that aldosterone, a hormone involved in blood pressure regulation, may also contribute to strokes. Aldosterone blockers have shown promise in animal models, reversing wall-thickening effects on blood vessels. However, gender differences and optimal treatment strategies remain unclear.
A four-year study found a sharp decline in HRT prescribing after the Million Women Study's publication, whereas an earlier study had little effect. Widespread media coverage is believed to have played a significant role in this change.
Researchers found that risedronate therapy significantly reduced plaque and improved periodontal status in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis. The study also highlighted the link between osteoporosis and periodontal disease, suggesting similar treatment and management may minimize tooth loss.
Researchers found that a 12-minute visit with dogs significantly lowered blood pressure, released less harmful hormones, and reduced anxiety among hospitalized heart failure patients. This study demonstrates the benefits of animal-assisted therapy as an adjunct to medical treatment for these patients.
Researchers found that light exposure triggers a massive surge of corticosterone in mice, playing a key role in physiological changes evoked by light. The study suggests light therapy may have beneficial effects on patients with seasonal affective disorder and other metabolic disorders.
Researchers found associations between PBC and family history of Sjogren's syndrome, urinary tract infection, smoking, nail polish use, and hormone replacement therapy. Never having been pregnant also showed protection from developing the disease.
A study of 1901 women with early-stage breast cancer found that longer tamoxifen treatment periods resulted in improved overall survival, particularly in younger patients. Women aged 50-55 showed significant overall survival improvement after five years of treatment.
A study of 208 women with early or advanced breast cancer found that nearly half forgot their tablets and over a tenth deliberately skipped doses. The research highlights the need for doctors to address patients' concerns about hot flushes and injections, which can affect treatment adherence.
A study of 869 women found that radiation therapy after surgery reduced breast cancer recurrence by almost 100%, with an overall survival rate of 97%. Radiation therapy also did not impact patients' quality of life or long-term survival rates.
A new study found that short-term hormone therapy can significantly improve the outlook for men with early-stage prostate cancer. Researchers discovered that testosterone suppression before and during radiotherapy reduced the risk of relapse by up to 44%.
Men who survive testicular cancer are at higher risk of developing a second cancer for at least 35 years after diagnosis, mostly due to late side effects of treatment. Cancers such as bladder, colon, and stomach cancers account for most excess risks, with young patients facing even greater dangers.
A study of 55,371 postmenopausal women found that estrogen-progestin and estrogen therapies increased breast cancer risk by 29% and 10%, respectively, after five years. The association applied to all ethnic groups except African-Americans.
Recent evidence suggests a link between estrogen deprivation and joint pain, particularly in women undergoing hormone therapy for breast cancer. Studies have shown that aromatase inhibitors and other estrogen-depleting treatments can increase the risk of musculoskeletal symptoms, including joint pain.
A new study by Kishan Pandya and colleagues found that gabapentin significantly reduced hot flash severity scores in women with breast cancer. The results suggest that gabapentin can be added to the list of non-hormonal agents for controlling hot flashes in these patients, with further studies needed on higher doses.
A Yale University study found that early use of hormone therapy is linked to fewer wrinkles and firmer skin. The researchers compared 11 non-users with nine long-term hormone therapy users and found significant decreases in wrinkle severity and rigidity.
Researchers aim to investigate whether starting hormone therapy early can prevent atherosclerosis and heart attacks. The KEEPS trial, led by Yale University, seeks healthy women aged 42-58 for a double-blind study exploring the effects of early menopausal hormone therapy.
Researchers argue that the pharmaceutical industry and medical professionals colluded to promote the view that menopause is a 'deficiency disease' for which women needed long-term treatment. This has led to increased risk of cancer, cardiovascular health issues, and other adverse effects.
A recent study published in The Journal of Clinical Pharmacology found that use of over-the-counter (OTC) topical progesterone results in significant drug exposure through skin absorption, comparable to prescribed oral progesterone products. The study revealed similar rates of adverse effects among women taking both types of progesterone.
A study of 8,405 women found that moderate or severe vasomotor symptoms were reported by 21.2% of former hormone therapy users, compared to 4.8% of placebo group respondents. Lifestyle and medical strategies may help manage symptoms after discontinuing hormone therapy.
Research suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be beneficial for women experiencing moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms due to estrogen deficiency. Additionally, studies have shown that HRT does not compromise survival in patients who are survivors from gynecologic cancer.
A recent study by Yale University researchers found that sEGFR, a breast cancer growth regulator, can indicate the effectiveness of letrozole in postmenopausal women with metastatic breast cancer. Decreased concentrations of sEGFR were seen in 73% and 76% of patients after one month and three months of treatment respectively.
A cross-sectional study of 2,162 men found that 38.7% had low testosterone levels and 23% had a history of diabetes. Men with diabetes and low T were 2.09 times more likely to have hypogonadism, a condition characterized by low testosterone production.
Researchers found that the drop in estrogen levels during menopause is linked to increased cortisol levels and abdominal fat. Estrogen replacement therapy may help prevent this rise in cortisol and delay or prevent weight issues.
Tercica has presented human and animal safety data showing no immunotoxic effects with long-term rhIGF-1 treatment. The data also demonstrate a reduction in the incidence of some endocrine cancers in animals, providing further evidence supporting the long-term safety of rhIGF-1 therapy.
A new dosing approach for growth hormone based on serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) shows improved height increases in children with growth hormone deficiency or short stature. The study found that increasing IGF-I levels resulted in significant gains in height, particularly in those receiving higher doses.
A recent study analyzed 10 studies on HRT and breast cancer, finding that randomized controlled trials show an increased risk of recurrence. The authors conclude that qualitative studies are unreliable due to methodological limitations and potential publication bias.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience found changes in GABAA receptors linked to seizures and anxiety during the menstrual cycle. The researchers suggest that these changes may be relevant to post-partum depression and mood swings during pregnancy, and could provide novel therapeutic targets for PMS and catamenial epilepsy.
A new mathematical model simulates 10-year disease-free survival in postmenopausal women with hormone-receptor positive breast cancer. The model reveals that the best treatment strategy depends on tumor biology, recommending tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitor treatment for different cases.
A large collaborative analysis of early breast cancer trials found that standard treatments such as chemotherapy and hormonal therapy can halve the 15-year risk of death from breast cancer. The study included data from 145,000 women with early breast cancer in 194 randomised trials.
A new study found no association between hormonal contraceptive use and changes in CD4+ cell count or viral load suppression after initiating HAART. Continuous HAART use significantly improved HIV disease progression outcomes, with increased CD4+ counts and undetectable viral loads.
A study found that commercially available extracts of black cohosh increased cell killing by two of four drugs used in cancer therapy for breast cancer patients. However, the herb also decreased the effectiveness of one drug. Further research is needed to understand why these effects occur.
A non-surgical method called mesotherapy claims to remove fat and contour the body, but there is no scientific evidence supporting its safety or efficacy. Plastic surgeons recommend liposuction instead due to its proven track record of safely removing fat.
A new study found that erythropoietin reduced inflammation and cell death, improving functional recovery after hemorrhagic stroke in rats. The treatment also showed decreases in brain water content and increases in behavioral recovery.
Two trials found that menopausal hormone therapy may increase breast cancer recurrence risk, but a new trial suggests no association. Researchers call for further study on safe treatment regimens.
A state-of-the-science panel urges caution in treating menopausal symptoms with hormones due to risks and limited evidence. Non-hormonal treatment approaches are recommended for further research.
Researchers found that vaccinating mice with prostate cancer immediately after hormone therapy triggers a stronger T-cell response against the cancer. The strategy could lead to better vaccine effectiveness in humans, delaying the need for additional treatments or hormone therapy.
A one-year study found growth hormone treatment significantly reduced intra-abdominal fat and improved insulin sensitivity in postmenopausal women with abdominal adiposity. The treatment also increased thigh muscle area and lowered LDL cholesterol concentration.
Research found that hormone therapy for prostate cancer can lead to temporary declines in visual memory and recognition speed. However, cognitive function appears to be well preserved despite these changes.
A recent study found that vitamin D injections can reduce mortality rates by up to 20% in dialysis patients. Currently, only half of kidney failure patients receive this treatment, highlighting the need for more aggressive treatment strategies.
A large clinical trial found that menopausal hormone therapy increased the incidence of urinary incontinence, particularly stress UI, and worsened its characteristics among symptomatic women. The study suggests that MHT should be reevaluated as a treatment option for UI.
The study found no benefit for women's health-related quality of life from post-menopausal hormone therapy, but increased risk of breast cancer, cardiovascular events, and stroke. This has led to a dilemma among stakeholders, including physicians and pharmaceutical companies.
Researchers at Medical College of Georgia have found changes in blood vessel chemistry that may explain how estrogen increases the risk of heart disease in older women. Estrogen targets nitric oxide synthase, producing a powerful age-promoting oxygen-free radical instead of making nitric oxide.