Hormone-replacement therapy

Hormone-replacement therapy (HRT) does not appear to increase significantly the risk of developing breast cancer unless taken for prolonged periods (over 10 years), and perhaps in certain high-risk groups. HRT may, however, prolong symptoms of benign breast disorder and make mammographic appearances more difficult to interpret.

Patients who develop breast cancer whilst on HRT appear to have a more favourable prognosis. The consequences in terms of recurrence in women using HRT following breast cancer are unknown.