Hi ljp - did you read Dr Currie's response on that thread? I didn't know whether it had got missed in amongst the posts. She said this
"While this study reported today is good for an observational study, it is still an observational study and hence has biases. The overall information does not tell us anything new and nothing that was not included in the NICE guideline.
Some important points to consider:
1. The associated risk returned back to baseline within 1 to 2 years after stopping HRT, confirming the view that HRT does not CAUSE breast cancer, but that it may promote the growth of cancer cells which are already present in some women--it can act as a promoter, not an initiator. This is a really important message since many women fear that HRT causes breast cancer.
2. The NICE guideline did in fact take into account the fact that previous observational studies may have underestimated the risk so NICE recommendations are still very relevant.
3. There is evidence that different progestogens may be associated with a different risk, types increasingly used today were not the main types used in this study.
4. While trebling of risk sounds very alarming, the actual figures are still very small and for many women, the benefits will continue to outweigh the risks.
5. Statement from British Menopause Society and Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists will be placed in our news section later today.*
I hope this is helpful.
In summary, no major changes in advice or recommendations.
Best wishes
Heather"
Taz x