Colon Cancer - Hormone Therapy And Disease: Menopause Managing The Change Of Life
Content provided by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School
Colon cancer
This area hasn't been a topic of widespread research, but existing studies show that estrogen appears to confer a moderate reduction in the risk of colon cancer. When estrogen is stopped, however, the protective effect diminishes and eventually disappears altogether.
Although the reason for this is not clear, it may be that estrogen therapy can slow the production of bile acids and lower the level of the growth hormone IGF-1. Both IGF-1 and bile acids are known to stimulate cancerous growths in the colon.
The Nurses' Health Study found that while women are taking hormone therapy, they are about 35% less likely to develop colon cancer than women who have never taken the hormones. The WHI showed a 37% reduction in colon cancer risk among women taking combined hormone therapy. Interestingly, the estrogen-only arm of the WHI did not show any colon cancer protection, and experts are uncertain why.
| Last updated: | August 13, 2007 |
|---|
Medical content reviewed by the Faculty of the Harvard Medical School. Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, Use of Content Agreement and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Related Articles
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
