MidLife
Women's Health Initiative (WHI)
The HRT component of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) is studying the effects of HRT on heart disease, osteoporosis-related bone fractures, and breast and endometrial cancer. This trial will enable scientists to assess both the benefits and risks of HRT.
HOW WILL THE HRT STUDY BE CONDUCTED?
More than 27,000 women aged 50-79 are participating in the HRT study. Women with a uterus were randomized to receive estrogen plus progestin or a placebo (inactive pill). Progestin is added to protect women with a uterus from endometrial cancer. Women who have had a hysterectomy were randomized to receive either estrogen alone or a placebo. Randomization is the computer procedure by which women are placed into the hormone group or the placebo group. Placement with either group was by chance; this ensured that the groups are comparable. HRT study participants will be followed for 8 to 12 years and have clinic visits every six months to assure safety and assess their health.
This study component tests whether long-term HRT reduces coronary heart disease and fractures without increasing breast cancer risk. Study results will help women and medical providers to make informed decisions as to whether long-term HRT should be routinely prescribed to postmenopausal women.
Source: The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
