Estrogen Replacement Therapy May Reduce Cataract Risk

Women who take estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) following menopause may have a lower risk of developing cataracts, reports a study in the medical journal Archives of Internal Medicine.

In examinations performed on 529 women between ages 66 and 93, researchers for the Framingham Eye Study found that those who had taken estrogen for 10 years or longer had a 60 percent reduction in risk compared with non-users. "Whether the findings should influence a woman's decision about estrogen replacement therapy should take into account the widespread availability of an effective treatment for cataract and the other potential risks and benefits of such therapy," said the researchers in the June 11 issue of the journal.

Previous studies have found that ERT may reduce the risk of osteoporosis and other health problems, but may increase risk of breast cancer. (Some studies find an increased risk, while others do not). It's advised that a thorough personal health history be taken by your doctor before ERT is begun.

Posted: Oct. 29, 2001