[Postmenopausal hormone replacement and cardiovascular disease].

We review the evidence that hormone replacement therapy protects against the development of cardiovascular disease in women. Most studies show that this treatment reduces risk of cardiovascular disease by about 50%. The results are reasonably consistent, and biologically plausible. The protective effects are mediated through effects on lipid metabolism, but also through direct effects on vessel wall physiology and blood flow. The beneficial effect of hormone replacement therapy seems to be most marked in high-risk patients and in women with severe coronary artery disease.