Advice from the Jean Hailes Foundation for women and their families about statements from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) about hormone replacement therapy, the oral contraceptive pill and cancer

Note: hormone therapy (HT) may also be referred to as hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

About the statement

There is a report from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) published in Lancet Oncology reviewing recent evidence on hormones and cancer.

What women need to know

The IARC, as the United Nations Cancer Agency, has listed hormone therapy and the oral contraceptive pill as substances that can cause cancer. It also stated that they protect against some cancers. The very small risk of cancer is only increased in women on hormones. Women who have used the pill or hormone therapy in the past do not have an increased risk of cancer.

There is nothing new in this review. Women and their health practitioners are already aware of the studies referred to in this document. It is a summary of what we already know.

The information on the oral contraceptive pill is not yet based on quality studies and experts agree further research is needed.

It is important for women to remember that every aspect of medicine needs vigilant follow-up and regular screening is vital, for example regular Pap tests and mammograms.

For further information about the risks and benefits of hormone therapy:

Advice to Medical Practitioners regarding the use of postmenopausal hormone therapy.

National Health and Medical Research Council Resources on Hormone Therapy

For information about the oral contraceptive pill:

Sexual Health and Family Planning Australia (www.shfpa.org.au)

What do women do now?

Women should NOT stop therapy on the basis of this announcement, but seek further information from reliable sources and discuss their personal risks and benefits with their health professional.

Women need to be fully informed when it comes to their health. This may seem difficult when conflicting statements hit the headlines. We encourage women to become more media aware, clear about what is relevant to them, the context of information being presented and the media’s need to capture our interest with headlines and dire warnings. Have the confidence to ask questions – in this way you empower yourself to make informed health decisions.

Content updated August 01, 2005