(072) What Kind of Specialists Should Know About HRT?

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) use has recently been a topic of debate amongst clinicians. The discussion has been most prevalent in the fields of gynecology, urology, and endocrinology. Current research suggests HRT can prevent the development of lethal diseases such as myocardial infarction, osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease, and genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Objective To raise awareness of HRT as a prophylactic measure to treat a variety of diseases in multiple organ systems, we recommend providing this information across multiple medical specialties to warrant the use of HRT amongst patients. Specialists including obstetricians and gynecologists, urologists, cardiologists, neurologists, dermatologists, psychiatrists, ophthalmologists, orthopedics, wound care specialists, sexologists, sex therapists, psychologists, rheumatologists, immunologists, infectious disease specialists, cosmetic surgeons, endocrinologists, and geriatricians should be aware of the benefits of HRT and how they can incorporate it into patient care. Methods Based on our own experience, for more than 40 years and the continued management of postmenopausal women, we have realized the importance that physicians, in specialties other than obstetrics and gynecology must be aware of the use of this therapy in their specific field. For example, approximately 60% of depression diagnoses in perimenopausal years can be treated with greater efficacy with hormone replacement therapy rather than antidepressants prescribed by psychiatrists. These findings have been confirmed in the current literature, however awareness amongst the various specialties is very poor. Results HRT plays a significant role in treating silent killers such as myocardial infarction, osteoporosis, diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Conclusions Previously, the role of HRT was not clearly established. Current data suggests HRT provides many benefits including a reduction in mortality. Through recent research and published literature, the consensus of the benefits and strategies of HRT have been established. However, the use of HRT is currently under-prescribed. This creates an opportunity to bring awareness to clinicians, thereby improving the lives of patients. Disclosure No