HRT scare - Awareness the key for women

TENS of thousands of Irish women taking hormone replacement therapy are understandably worried in the aftermath of a report showing that certain types of HRT can double the risk of developing breast cancer.

But while it is vital to heed the results of British medical research, it is equally important that women should consult their doctors before rushing into any decision to abandon a treatment which, for many, has been extremely beneficial in relieving the more debilitating symptoms of the menopause.

Not surprisingly, GPs and health centres are receiving numerous calls, as it is estimated that 65,000 women in this country use the treatment to boost falling hormone levels.