Menopause Hormone Therapy: No Increase in Heart Risks, Study Shows

A recent study conducted in Israel suggests that modern hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopausal symptoms does not correlate with an increased risk of heart disease, blood clots, or premature death. This finding is particularly valuable for women in midlife who are considering therapy and have no prior history of these conditions.

Study Overview

The research was led by Ronen Arbel and utilized records from Clalit Health Services, including over 52,000 women aged between 45 and 59 years. The study will soon be presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2026 and has not yet undergone the peer-review process for journal publication.

Methodology

Researchers focused on two groups: one that started HRT and another that consulted a gynecologist but did not begin treatment. The study excluded women with histories of heart disease, blood clots, or cancer to provide a clearer comparison.

Participants were matched based on various factors like age, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes status, smoking habits, and socioeconomic background. This approach aimed to enhance the comparability of the groups, although it cannot account for every single difference.

Findings and Implications

Health records from the participants were analyzed over an average duration of 12 years, with some extending up to 23 years. The researchers looked for outcomes such as heart attacks, strokes, other cardiovascular diseases, incidents of blood clots, and deaths before the age of 80.

The findings were noteworthy as they did not reveal any significant differences in cardiovascular events between women who used HRT and those who did not. Moreover, outcomes appeared consistent across different types of treatments, including tablets, patches, and gels.

It's important to note, however, that while this study provides reassurance for women undergoing therapy, it does not establish that hormone treatments are risk-free. Those on HRT may maintain differing lifestyles, diets, and health conditions compared to non-users, which weren't fully accounted for in the study.

Future Directions

The research team is also developing blood tests powered by artificial intelligence (AI) aimed at assessing the long-term risk of heart disease more accurately. These advancements could lead to more personalized treatment plans for menopausal women.

Despite promising outcomes from this analysis, caution is advised. The study's conclusions are still preliminary, and it cannot definitively ascertain the long-term risks associated with all HRT products or approaches. Therefore, individuals should consult healthcare professionals about their unique situations before starting hormone therapy, especially for heart protection.

This study adds to the ongoing discussions about menopause management and heart health, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment plans that take into account individual medical histories, symptoms, and therapy choices.