Women need full facts on HRT cancer risk

FOR millions of women in Britain, HRT has been nothing short of a blessing.

Introduced in the 1960s, it proved a simple medication that relieved debilitating symptoms of the menopause. The drug has transformed the lives of middle-aged women enduring discomfort and misery.

Using patches, tablets or gels to replace hormones the body had stopped producing, grateful women could avoid depression, mood swings, night sweats and joint pain.

Preventing these crippling anchors meant they could enjoy fulfilling lives.

However, 17 years ago a dark cloud appeared. Scientists cast doubt on HRT’s safety, suggesting a link to cancer.

Quickly, though, questions were raised about whether the research was flawed – failing to take into account lifestyle factors such as diet and alcohol consumption.

But today, a profoundly disturbing Oxford University study raises those fears all over again. Academics have found HRT increases the risk of breast cancer by a third.

Alarmingly, for one woman in 50 the treatment causes cancer. In Britain, the study indicates 3,000 lives are blighted every year. And the danger persists for up to 15 years after ditching the drug. Even more worryingly, researchers suggest some GPs have wrongly told patients not to fret.

There is no question this new research will trigger a huge debate. Indeed, a renowned expert explains in the Daily Mail today that he still considers it a preferable option to having no treatment at all.

For most, the untold mental and physical health benefits easily outweigh the very small risk of cancer. But women deserve to be appraised of all the facts – especially when the decision can end in tragedy.

The spotlight now falls on Health Secretary Matt Hancock. It is his urgent duty to make sure guidelines are updated – and fast.