[Does menopause hormone therapy reduce the risk of chronic diseases?].

The hormonal deficit of post menopause is not only linked to the classic hot flashes, but also to a higher risk of chronic diseases. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) adequately treats climacteric symptoms and can prevent some chronic diseases such as osteoporosis. The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study, which indicated risks of MHT in elderly postmenopausal women, caused a massive withdrawal of this therapy. But, in recent years the results of the WHI have been challenged by methodological problems and by several studies indicating that, if MHT is initiated early and the non-oral route is preferred, the risks could be minimized and it could improve not only the quality of life but also reduce the risk of chronic diseases. However, the US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against the use of MHT for the prevention of chronic diseases, a position that has been challenged by publications of the North American Menopause Society and the International Menopause Society. This controversy persists so far. We report data that suggest a preventive role of MHT in perimenopausal women.