Relationship between menopausal hormone therapy and incidence risk of breast cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis

Key Points

• The aim is to explore the relationship between menopausal hormone therapy and the risk of developing breast cancer.
• Conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess breast cancer risk associated with menopausal hormone therapy.
• Analyzed data from observational studies and clinical trials that focused on hormone therapy regimens.
• Evaluated the influence of geographical factors on breast cancer risk related to hormone therapy.
• Menopausal hormone therapy is linked to a modest increase in breast cancer risk, mainly from estrogen-progestin therapy.
• No significant risk increase was noted for estrogen therapy based on observational studies, while trials showed a potential protective effect.
• Geographical differences suggest that the risk associated with hormone therapy varies by region and treatment regimen.