Research on hormone therapy and its effects. Covers menopause symptom relief, bronchiectasis risk, dementia links, and Alzheimer's risk.
New study finds that extended estrogen suppression using aromatase inhibitors for hormone receptor-positive postmenopausal breast cancer is safe and does not increase the risk of coronary artery calcification. The duration of treatment and presence of osteoporosis were not associated with increased coronary artery calcification scores.
Researchers discovered a novel treatment that extends ovarian function in older mice by improving maintenance of the ovaries and preventing key age-related changes. The treatment also fixes hormone production and overall health, alleviating symptoms such as bone loss, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.
A new study based on Women's Health Initiative data suggests that certain estrogen-based hormone therapies may have a beneficial impact on cardiovascular biomarkers, except for triglycerides. The study found significant improvements in HDL-C and LDL-C levels, as well as reductions in insulin resistance and lipoprotein(a) levels.
A retrospective analysis of over 100 women aged 65+ found that many continued to experience benefits from hormone therapy, with hot flashes being the primary reason for continued use. The study suggests that healthcare professionals should consider individual risk factors and health status when deciding on hormone therapy for older women.
A new study confirms that hormone therapy is still underutilized among women over 65, with only 70-80% experiencing menopause symptoms. The majority of participants continued hormone therapy to manage hot flashes and improve their quality of life, highlighting the need for more open consideration of its use in this age group.
The September issues of APA journals focus on depression risk factors and treatments, as well as noninvasive brain stimulation therapies. The American Journal of Psychiatry explores the promise of these therapies in treating depression.
Researchers investigated the connection between androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer and Alzheimer's disease. They found that ADT can exacerbate cognitive decline by increasing brain immune cell infiltration, but a combination with Natalizumab improved integrity of the blood-brain barrier and reduced inflammation.
Postmenopausal women who received hormone therapy were biologically younger than those who did not, with a stronger association observed in low-income individuals. The study suggests that promoting hormone therapy could be essential for healthy aging and reducing mortality rates.
A phase II clinical trial found that olaparib, a precision oncology drug, can induce durable complete remissions in recurrent prostate cancer patients with BRCA2 mutations. The study showed that 13 participants, including all 11 with BRCA2 mutations, had a decrease in PSA of at least 50% after treatment.
A new non-hormonal hot flash treatment has been shown to significantly reduce symptom frequency and severity within weeks, while also improving sleep quality and overall well-being. The investigational drug elinzanetant was found to have a favorable safety profile with mild side effects.
A new study published in Nature Medicine shows that precision therapy can improve survival for men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. The treatment, which involves analyzing the genetic profile of the tumor, has been shown to be more effective than chemotherapy in patients whose tumors have specific mutations.
A new study by UCLA investigators found that Manuka honey contains compounds that can help reduce tumor growth in preclinical models. The research suggests that Manuka honey could potentially be developed into a natural supplement or standalone treatment for ER-positive breast cancer, which accounts for most breast cancer cases.
Researchers discovered that blocking Cxcr4 in mice reduced white fat tissue, while estrogen therapy could be effective with lower doses. The study offers promising avenues for understanding healthy and unhealthy fat tissue development.
A new study published in Andrology has found that patients with lower testosterone levels tend to have short little fingers, which is associated with an increased risk of severe Covid-19. The research suggests that testosterone may reduce inflammation in the lungs and other organs, providing a protective effect against severe illness.
Researchers from the University of Sheffield have developed a new form of immunotherapy using nanoparticles that delays the onset of resistance to hormone therapy in prostate cancer. This innovative approach stimulates immune cells called T cells to attack cancer cells, marking a significant breakthrough in treating prostate cancer.
A new study found that subclinical hypothyroidism diagnosed before 21 weeks of pregnancy is associated with higher rates of overt hypothyroidism or thyroid replacement therapy within 5 years after delivery. Women with high TSH values and elevated TPO antibodies were at increased risk.
Researchers from Radboud University Medical Center discuss the potential of using early on-treatment circulating tumor DNA measurements as a response assessment for metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. The detection of ctDNA at baseline and 4-weeks after treatment initiation can predict response durability to first-line ARPIs.
A retrospective cohort study found hormone-modulating therapy protected against Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in postmenopausal women with breast cancer. The protective effect varied by age and race, with greater benefit for Black women under 75.
A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that hormone modulating therapy (HMT) used to treat breast cancer was associated with a 7% lower risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The protective effect of HMT decreased with age, particularly for women over 80.
Scientists have discovered a new hormone, CCN3, that helps maintain bone density and strength in breastfeeding women. In mice, CCN3 increased bone mass and strength, even when estrogen levels were low. The hormone also accelerated bone healing in fracture models, offering hope for treating osteoporosis and other bone conditions.
Scientists have mapped over 5,000 genetic variants in the 'tumour protection' gene BAP1 that significantly increase cancer risk. These variants can be used to develop new treatments, including IGF-1 inhibitors, to slow down or prevent cancer progression.
A recent study published in JAMA found that transgender women on hormone therapy have drastically lower PSA levels, which may lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer. The researchers analyzed Veterans Health Administration records and recommended caution when interpreting PSA values in transgender women.
A pooled analysis of three randomized trials found that acupuncture significantly reduced hot flashes and hormonal side effects in women with stage 0-III breast cancer. The study showed that 64% of participants experienced improvements in hot flashes, and acupuncture also improved quality of life.
Gender diverse individuals face barriers in accessing healthcare screening, leading to a higher risk of undetected cancer. Nurse practitioners can play a crucial role in closing this gap by providing culturally safe care and promoting regular screenings.
Researchers have identified a novel target downstream of parathyroid hormone signaling that suppresses bone formation. Gprc5a negatively regulates osteoblast proliferation and differentiation by partially suppressing BMP signaling, potentially increasing teriparatide effectiveness in non-responding patients.
Hormonally.org provides free-to-access, evidence-based resources on women's hormonal health, empowering women to seek care, treatment, and support. The nonprofit addresses stigmas and misinformation surrounding women's hormonal issues, fostering a supportive online community for connection and shared decision-making.
A new AI model has been shown to significantly improve the accuracy of diagnosing prostate cancer by 45 times compared to doctors' measurements alone. The system assists in mapping out the boundaries of cancerous tissue, reducing the risk of underestimation and enabling more precise treatment planning and effective surgical procedures.
A study analyzing pooled clinical trial data found that teprotumumab maintained improvements in signs and symptoms of thyroid eye disease in most patients after 51 weeks. Nearly two years after the final infusion, 82% of patients did not require further treatment.
Researchers at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute have reported encouraging results from three separate studies on treatments for central nervous system lymphoma, breast cancer, and glioblastoma. CAR T-cell therapy showed a 94% overall response rate in patients with CNS lymphoma, while an antibody-drug conjugate plus checkpoint inhibitor imp...
A study published in Andrology found that testosterone therapy significantly improves body composition in transgender men, with no long-term side effects. Researchers also discovered that higher doses of testosterone may lead to faster results.
A recent study found that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was associated with improved pulmonary hypertension and right ventricular function in women. The researchers analyzed data from over 700 women with pulmonary hypertension and found that those who used HRT had lower mean pulmonary artery pressure and higher right ventricular fr...
A large-scale Finnish study discovered a significant link between premature menopause and increased mortality risk. Women with spontaneous premature ovarian insufficiency were more than twice as likely to die of any cause or heart disease, but hormone replacement therapy reduced this risk by half for those using it for over six months.
Scientists from Nagoya University identified signaling from serotonin neurons as important for maintaining reproductive function by sensing glucose availability. This discovery provides an explanation and possible treatment for decreased fertility observed in people with depression.
A team of researchers from the University of Chicago has identified a genetic mutation in a non-coding region of DNA that alters thyroid hormone regulation, leading to a rare form of congenital thyroid abnormality. This discovery sheds light on a previously unexplained phenomenon and may lead to new treatments for individuals with this...
The summit aimed to improve care for people with cancer by discussing knowledge gaps, societal stigma, and shifting policies. Experts emphasized the importance of education about sexual and reproductive health in cancer treatment.
The Women's Health Initiative study found that hormone therapy is beneficial for treating moderate-to-severe hot flashes and night sweats in early menopause, while a low-fat dietary pattern may reduce breast cancer mortality. Calcium and vitamin D supplements do not support fracture prevention for all postmenopausal women.
Menopausal hormone therapy is appropriate to treat vasomotor symptoms in early menopause without contraindications. WHI evidence does not support routine supplementation with calcium plus vitamin D or a low-fat diet for preventing fractures and breast/colorectal cancer, respectively.
A new study supports the use of neoadjuvant chemohormonal therapy for patients with locally advanced prostate cancer, showing improved biochemical progression-free survival and treatment-free survival rates. The treatment combination offers significant benefits in controlling PSA levels and potentially improving patient outcomes.
A study found that social stress during adolescence in female mice leads to prolonged cortisol elevation after giving birth, similar to women exposed to adverse early life experiences. The researchers suggest alternative treatments may be more effective for postpartum depression.
A new study suggests that the benefits of hormone therapy for women over 65 years old differ greatly depending on the type, route, and dose prescribed. The use of estrogen monotherapy beyond age 65 was associated with significant risk reductions in mortality, breast cancer, and other health issues.
Researchers discovered MIA-602's effectiveness against Doxorubicin-resistant acute myeloid leukemia (AML), demonstrating reduced cell viability and tumor volume. The study suggests MIA-602 as a potential alternative treatment approach for AML, potentially circumventing chemotherapy side effects.
A study published in PNAS reveals the structure of a protein linked to neurodegenerative disease Niemann-Pick type C, which accumulates cholesterol within cellular compartments. The research sheds light on the complex mechanism of cholesterol distribution and its role in maintaining optimal levels.
Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl's groundbreaking research has shed light on the mechanisms underlying sex differences in MS, highlighting a gene on female sex chromosomes that promotes inflammation and brain-protective effects of estrogen. Her work may lead to new treatment approaches for MS.
A new study found that postmenopausal women exhibit smaller cortical surface areas in certain brain regions, reduced thalamic subnuclei volumes, and decreased functional connectivity, suggesting a link between menopause-related symptoms and brain changes.
Researchers discovered compounds with untapped therapeutic potential for treating BPH, melanogenesis, and nerve damage. Metformin restored sex hormone homeostasis, epimedin B stimulated pigmentation function, and hydralazine suppressed ferroptosis to aid in axon regeneration.
Researchers assessed the feasibility of dual PD-L1/CTLA-4 checkpoint inhibition in Stage II or III hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. Eight patients received upfront durvalumab and tremelimumab prior to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, showing mixed responses and limited benefit.
Researchers have identified two plant compounds with potential as GLP-1 agonist weight loss pills, derived from common plants and potentially offering fewer side effects than current medications. The discovery was made using high-performance artificial intelligence techniques to analyze over 10,000 compounds.
Adding ribociclib to hormone therapy improves invasive disease-free survival by 90.4% at three years, distant disease-free survival by 90.8%, and recurrence-free survival by 91.7%. The study found a 25% relative reduction in recurrence rate for patients with stage 2 or 3 HR-positive, HER2-negative early breast cancer.
A Johns Hopkins Medicine research team found a cell surface protein that senses odors and chemicals may be responsible for the long-known difference in blood pressure between females and males. The study, published in Science Advances, used data from mice and humans to investigate the link between an odor sensor and blood pressure.
New data show that adding pembrolizumab to chemotherapy before and after surgery for breast cancer leads to better outcomes, with significant increases in pathological complete response rates across all age groups. The study also found similar rates of breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy, as well as lower residual cancer burdens.
A new genetic test has identified patients with triple negative early-stage breast cancer who are unlikely to respond to immunotherapy drugs. The test, called ImPrintTN, can predict a patient's likelihood of responding to these treatments and help avoid severe side effects.
Recent medications for Type 2 diabetes and weight loss have positive effects on cardiovascular and kidney health but are not always prescribed or accessible to those who need them. The studies highlight the need to address barriers to access and equity, particularly among Black adults with severe obesity.
A combination of short-course hormonal therapy and stereotactic body radiation therapy has been shown to be safe and effective in treating metastatic prostate cancer. In a preliminary study, 50% of patients remained recurrence-free six months after treatment, with less than a quarter experiencing severe side effects.
A high-impact study demonstrates the safety and efficacy of relugolix in conjunction with radiation therapy for localized and advanced prostate cancer, achieving rapid castration and maintaining low testosterone levels. The study also shows no difference between relugolix and leuprolide in time to castration-resistant prostate cancer.
A recent study published in BMJ found that progesterone is more effective than a cervical pessary at reducing extreme preterm birth in women with a short cervix. Women with a cervix shorter than 25mm can benefit from progesterone treatment to prevent severe preterm birth.
Researchers investigated the impact of senolytic treatments on DNA methylation clocks and epigenetic age. Results showed significant increases in epigenetic age acceleration with Dasatinib and Quercetin treatment, but not with Fisetin addition.
A new approach to menopause is needed, focusing on empowering women with high-quality information and empathic clinical care. The experience of menopause varies for each person, and an individualised approach can help women navigate this life stage.
A new study from Boston University School of Medicine found that surgery significantly reduces the risk of death and major adverse cardiovascular events in hyperthyroid patients. Compared to medication, surgery resulted in a 47% lower risk of death and a 24% lower risk of major cardiovascular events.
Researchers investigated combining Sacituzumab govitecan with platinum-based chemotherapeutics for triple-negative breast cancer, urinary bladder carcinoma, and small-cell lung carcinoma. The study showed additive to synergistic antitumor effects in vitro and in vivo, with improved outcomes in tumor-bearing animals.
A new study shows that HIV antiretrovirals can be taken together with gender-affirming hormone therapy without losing potency of either drug. The study found that estrogen and testosterone levels remained unchanged when participants took HIV medications alongside their hormone regimen.