| The following is the opinion of the
author only. There are many layers in the debate
over bioidentical hormone replacement.
Menopause is a medical condition that
all women experience as they age. There are many significant disease
processes that are affected by the sudden drop in hormones. There are also
vital quality of life issues that effect women during the "change of life".
Because over half of the population experiences menopause, there is a huge
amount of money to be made if a treatment can be found that is suitable for most
patients. Medical research physicians base
their practice on is largely funded by drug companies. This being
said, the fact that drug companies are not willing to spend the money to test bioidentical hormones and leads to the void of research on bioidentical hormones.
Unless the government decides to fund medical research on BHRT (and why would
they when the large drug companies
are lobbying to block it because they stand to lose millions), I am afraid that the
medical community at large will not have enough proof to support the safety and
efficacy of BHRT.
Any type of hormone therapy has
risks, even "natural" or bioidentical. Women with some conditions
should never be on hormone therapy. It is imperative that women discuss
the risks and benefits of hormone replacement with their physician to decide
what is right for them. |
