Influence of hormone therapy on cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.55892/jrg.v9i20.2960Keywords:
cardiovascular diseases, menopause, hormone replacement therapyAbstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women, with a higher risk after menopause due to the drop in estradiol (E2) levels. Therefore, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has emerged as an alternative to reduce CVD mortality. The objective of this article is to analyze the effects of HRT on the cardiovascular health of postmenopausal women, considering the benefits and risks in CVD prevention. An integrative literature review was conducted, analyzing 386 articles extracted from the PubMed and BVS databases using the descriptors "hormone replacement therapy," "cardiovascular diseases," and "menopause." Original studies in English, published between 2020 and 2025, with free access, were included, excluding duplicate, incomplete, or unrelated articles. Thus, 22 articles were analyzed regarding the efficacy and risks associated with HRT. The review indicated that the use of HRT in menopause presents complexities, especially regarding cardiovascular risk. Although it can improve quality of life and prevent cardiac events by reducing LDL cholesterol and insulin resistance, there are also risks related to specific outcomes, such as venous thromboembolism (VTE). Furthermore, the effects on blood pressure remain controversial. Age is a crucial factor, with proven benefits in women under 60, reducing the risk of acute coronary heart disease by 44%; however, recent evidence indicates that specific formulations may also benefit women above this age. The transdermal route has proven preferable, with fewer adverse effects. Therefore, HRT can provide cardiovascular benefits, especially when initiated early, but it is not recommended as a primary prevention strategy. The decision should be individualized, considering each patient's factors, to optimize benefits and minimize risks. More studies are needed to clarify these variables.
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