Can HRT be taken if there is a family history of breast cancer?
A.A close family history of breast cancer can increase the individual’s risk of developing breast cancer, particularly if the family member was affected at a young age. HRT taken for short-term (<5 years) for control of menopausal symptoms, is very unlikely to increase this risk further. HRT taken for >5 years, is thought to be associated with an increased risk. If this is combined with the risk from the family history, the individual may feel that the benefits of long-term HRT are outweighed by the risk. For each individual, the risks must be balanced against the benefits. • Q. I had breast cancer a few years ago. I’m now having awful flushes and sweats. I’ve been told that I can’t have HRT but is there anything else that I can take? A. Firstly, for anyone having menopausal symptoms, it is worth thinking if any diet or lifestyle changes are required; stopping smoking, reducing alcohol, reducing caffeine, healthy diet and increasing exercise can often help. If specific treatments are n
