What’s The Latest On HormoneTherapy? (NAPSA)—It’s not always easy to translate the latest medical findings into information that helps us live a healthierlife. For example, in light of recent studies, many women are not clear about the risks and benefits of using hormonetherapy to treat the symptoms of menopause. As a result, some have even stopped using hormone therapy, leaving health experts concerned about whether these women are taking appropriate steps to protect their health. At the onset of menopause, changes in hormonelevels cause changes in a woman’s body. Women’s bones often become thin- ner and lose calcium, which can lead to spine and hip fractures, as well as a curved spine. Also, they may experience hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats, and painful intercourse. Furthermore, there is evidence that the incidence of cardiovascular disease begins to rise at this time. Experts recommend managing menopause symptoms in two phases. In the first phase—for the short term—hormone therapy can reduce bone loss and treat specific menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Hormonetherapy does not pro- tect against heart disease, but it does protect against ongoing bone loss with age. After the first phase, women should discuss the risks and bene- At the onset of menopause, changesin hormonelevels cause changes in a woman’s body. fits of continuing hormone therapy with their doctors. Experts believe that women who take hormones for less than three to five years, do so with relatively low risk. Women who are concerned about bone loss and are thinking about taking hormone therapy for more than five years, should talk with a doctor to see whether hormone therapy or an alternative treatmentis best. The Hormone Foundation strongly recommends good nutri- tion, weight loss when needed, regular exercise, alcohol in moder- ation, and no smoking, as these are important steps to staying healthy and the best ways to prevent disease. For more resources on menopause and to find an endocrinolo- gist, visit www.hormone.org or call 1-800-HORMONE.
