Is It Safe To Have HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) With Ocular Melanoma?

During perimenopause and menopause, estrogen (and sometimes progesterone) decline significantly. Estrogen affects more than just hot flashes. It plays a role in brain function, mood, sleep, bone density, cardiovascular health, skin, and even joint health; therefore, symptoms of deficiency can be widespread and subtle. HRT can prevent osteoporosis, reduce fracture risk, and possibly improve cardiovascular health. There is no clear evidence that HRT increases risk in ocular melanoma. Unlike some cancers, ocular melanoma has not been shown to be hormonally driven. There are no data showing that estrogen worsens outcomes or increases recurrence risk in this disease. However, HRT is contraindicated in estrogen-sensitive cancers, such as certain types of breast cancer and uterine cancer. It is important to discuss with your physician whether HRT is appropriate in the context of your health. Welcome to Finding Your Way with Ocular Melanoma, a guide to understanding everything there is to know about your experience with this rare cancer. Learn through the lens of my knowledge and clinical experience as a physician expert and passionate patient advocate. The more you know about ocular melanoma, the better you will do, and the better you will live. Let's go! For Tara McCannel's resources (including webinar links and link to my book!), visit my website: https://seyhart.com/ocularmelanoma The content shared on the Finding Your Way with Ocular Melanoma podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided must not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. As a listener, you are responsible for your own health-related decisions and must consider consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized medical advice.  Tara McCannel MD PhD is a an ocular oncologist, vitreoretinal surgeon and co-founder of Seyhart Wellness. She is also the host of the Mind Body MD podcast where she shares her passion for holistic health and wellness.