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Estrogen replacement therapy and the risk of endometrial cancer: remaining controversies.

Authors :
Rubin GL
Peterson HB
Lee NC
Maes EF
Wingo PA
Becker S
Source :
American journal of obstetrics and gynecology [Am J Obstet Gynecol] 1990 Jan; Vol. 162 (1), pp. 148-54.
Publication Year :
1990

Abstract

To examine the relationship between exogenous estrogen administration and endometrial cancer, we used data from the Cancer and Steroid Hormone Study, a multicenter, population-based case-control study. Estrogen replacement therapy for greater than or equal to 2 years was associated with an increased risk of both localized and extrauterine cancer (relative risk = 2.8, 95% confidence limits 1.6, 4.6; relative risk = 2.9, 95% confidence limits 0.9, 9.4, respectively). However, the latter finding was based on a small number of cases in which estrogen was used. Women who underwent estrogen replacement therapy for greater than or equal to 2 years had significantly elevated risks of endometrial cancer (2.1 for 2 to 5 years and 3.5 for greater than or equal to 6 years). An elevated risk persisted for greater than or equal to 6 years after discontinuation of therapy. Women who exclusively used conjugated equine estrogen preparations less than or equal to 0.625 mg had no increased risk of endometrial cancer. A history of oral contraceptive use appeared to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer associated with estrogen replacement therapy. However, these latter two potentially important findings were based on a small number of cases in which hormones were used.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
0002-9378
Volume :
162
Issue :
1
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
American journal of obstetrics and gynecology
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
2301483
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/0002-9378(90)90838-x