Estriol for Treatment of Breast Cancer
Estriol is a naturally occurring estrogen that is being recreated in compound laboratories for use as a bio-identical hormone replacement to treat menopausal symptoms. There is some question as to whether or not it is helpful in treating breast cancer.
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Timing
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Among the studies conducted on estriol, a Swedish study concluded that estriol could increase breast cancer risk if used under five years and decrease the risk if used longer than five years.
Pregnancy Connection
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Estriol is an estrogen produced by a woman's body during pregnancy. Estriol levels are highest right before delivery. Some believe that because estriol is safe for a developing fetus, it is safe to use for treatment of menopause and breast cancer. This claim has not been verified by any studies.
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Significance
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Neither the American Cancer Society nor the Susan G. Komen Foundation is indicating estriol as a breast cancer treatment. Additional research is needed to see if there are benefits of estriol for treatment of the disease.
Considerations
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Since there is controversy as to whether estriol may be helpful or harmful in relation to breast cancer, discuss all breast cancer treatment options with your doctor.
Warning
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Estriol is a bioidentical drug and is not produced in pharmacies that are under the Food and Drug Association (FDA). It does not have FDA approval for use as a breast cancer treatment.
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References
Resources
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