Taking HRT in perimenopause may ward off cardiovascular disease
Hormone replacement therapies may reduce the risk of heart attacks and stroke, but the timing of when they are started could be critical
A recent study suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during the perimenopause or early menopause may lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Over a period of 20 years, researchers examined nearly 2,800 women and found that those who began HRT within 10 years of experiencing hot flushes and night sweats were 27% less likely to experience cardiovascular events compared to those who did not take HRT.
However, the study's lead author, Samar El Khoudary, emphasizes that the findings do not support using HRT to prevent cardiovascular disease. The mechanisms behind HRT's potential protective effect are complex and multifactorial, involving oestrogen's role in regulating cholesterol and blood sugar levels, as well as its impact on artery structure.
The study also found that HRT's protective effect was most pronounced among Black participants, who may be more likely to experience vasomotor symptoms. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and to determine the optimal timing for HRT use. While the study suggests that HRT may have cardiovascular benefits during this stage of life, more research is required to establish causality.
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