 |
|
page 6 | page 7 | page 8 | page 9 | page 10 | page 11 references | patient handout | table of contents | test This certified monograph is jointly sponsored by the American Nurses Assocation,
IntroductionThis monograph addresses the growing body of emerging data and new research on estrogen as part of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). In addition to the known benefits of HRT (ie, short-term symptom relief and long-term protection from cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis), estrogen may offer menopausal women positive benefits in other body systems. Some of the recent data present compelling evidence of estrogen's beneficial action, which is the case, for example, with mood and cognition, Alzheimer's disease, and colon cancer. However, in other areas such as macular degeneration, osteoarthritis, Parkinson's disease, and diabetes, the data are highly suggestive, but not conclusive.It is important for nurses to stay abreast of research advances as science continues to uncover and define the benefits of HRT. It is also particularly valuable for nurses to be sensitive to mental health issues, such as mood changes or depression, that can surface at the time of menopause. Such issues often go unrecognized or unaddressed and are sometimes dismissed by women as being "part of daily life," or "all in my head." Menopause represents an important time for women to reassess their health, their lifestyle, and their expectations for the future. As front-line health professionals, nurses can help menopausal women weigh the risks and benefits of HRT and make a decision that is appropriate for them.
|
|
previous: Overview and Objectives next: Estrogen and the Brain |
© 2000 American Nurses Association