ESTROGENS, PROGESTINS AND BREAST-CANCER RISK IN POSTMENOPAUSAL WOMEN - STATE OF THE ONGOING CONTROVERSY IN 1992

During the past 10 years an extensive literature has been generated concerning the risks and benefits of hormonal replacement therapy in post-menopausal women. Although some of the questions have been answered during this period, controversy about the risk of breast cancer continues. This paper attempts to evaluate the risk of breast cancer in the light of epidemiological, experimental and histological findings. An interpretation of the available data and practical therapeutic recommendations are given. It is concluded that no change in the currently recommended schedule of combined sequential estrogen progestin therapy is necessary at this stage.