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Non-contraceptive exogenous estrogens and risk of breast cancer: A review

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Summary

Results from epidemiologic and related studies of non-contraceptive estrogens and breast cancer are reviewed. Exogenous estrogens in high doses can enhance the risk of breast cancer. Moderate use of estrogens for menopausal symptoms probably has little effect on risk, but long-term users, and women who take high-strength preparations, appear to be at slightly increased risk. Exogenous estrogens probably reduce the protective effect of premenopausal oophorectomy, and may preferentially enhance the risk of breast cancer in women with some types of benign breast disease, although data from some studies do not support these conclusions. There is no evidence that the influence on risk of breast cancer is different for synthetic and conjugated estrogens. Needs for reanalyses of data from existing studies, and for additional investigations, are summarized.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA

    David B. Thomas M.D., Dr.P.H.

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  1. David B. Thomas M.D., Dr.P.H.
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Address for Reprints: David B. Thomas, M.D., Dr.P.H., Program in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, 1124 Columbia Street, Seattle, WA 98104, USA.

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Thomas, D.B. Non-contraceptive exogenous estrogens and risk of breast cancer: A review. Breast Cancer Res Tr 2, 203–211 (1982). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01806932

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