Hormone replacement therapy has increased in use as a result of its well-established benefits as an effective tool against such consequences as osteoporosis and ischemic heart disease and in the management of menopausal symptoms. However, its possible negative impact on the survival of patients with a previous diagnosis of breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer remains controversial. The risk:benefit analysis of hormone replacement therapy in this setting warrants further investigation. In the meantime, patients should be counseled on the risks, benefits, and contraindications of hormone replacement therapy before embarking on its use.
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