The WHI (Women's Health Initiative) trial assessed combined estrogen-progestogen HRT and found it to be associated with which significant adverse outcome that led to early trial termination?
- A Increased risk of osteoporotic fractures
- B Increased risk of colorectal cancer
- C Increased risk of invasive breast cancer ✓
- D Increased risk of endometrial cancer
Correct answer: C. Increased risk of invasive breast cancer
Explanation
The combined estrogen-progestogen arm of the WHI trial was halted in 2002 after a mean of 5.6 years due to a significant increase in invasive breast cancer (HR 1.26, 95% CI 1.00–1.59). It also showed increased risks of coronary heart disease, stroke, and pulmonary embolism. Combined HRT was protective against colorectal cancer and fractures. The estrogen-only arm (in hysterectomised women) did not show increased breast cancer risk.
Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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