Oncologists Find New Applications for BHRT in Cancer Patients
If you are a practicing oncologist, your primary focus is on conventional cancer treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, there is growing interest in exploring complementary approaches and adjunct therapies to enhance the well-being and quality of life of cancer patients.
Recently, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) has emerged as an extremely promising adjunct treatment for addressing the symptoms and side effects of both the cancer itself and the cancer treatments. In this article, the SottoPelle® Method physician BHRT training experts provide a comprehensive analysis of how oncologists are incorporating BHRT into their practice – including the potential benefits of BHRT for cancer patients as supported by clinical studies and research.
Understanding BHRT
The bioidentical hormones used in BHRT are derived from natural sources and are structurally identical to hormones produced by the human body. Unlike synthetic hormones, which have slight structural differences, bioidentical hormones are believed to offer a closer match to the body’s natural hormones. SottoPelle® Method BHRT training offers physicians the tools to personalize and tailor hormone therapy to each individual patient’s specific hormone needs, determined through comprehensive evaluation and hormone testing.
Potential Benefits of BHRT in Oncology
Cancer treatments can cause significant hormonal imbalances, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue, mood swings, and diminished libido. BHRT may help alleviate these symptoms and improve overall quality of life for cancer patients.
Hysterectomy can cause significant hormonal disruption in women. Depending on the type of hysterectomy, the ovaries may also be removed, resulting in surgical menopause. This sudden decline in hormone production can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, and decreased bone density. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be considered to help manage these symptoms and restore hormonal balance in post-hysterectomy patients.
Many chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer can also affect hormone levels. For instance, certain drugs can suppress ovarian function in premenopausal women, leading to a temporary or permanent halt in estrogen production. This can result in menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. In some cases, chemotherapy can also impact the function of the adrenal glands, which produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Hormone replacement therapy or other supportive measures may be recommended to manage these hormone-related side effects.
Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells can also impact hormone production. Depending on the area being treated, radiation therapy may affect the function of the nearby endocrine glands, such as the thyroid or pituitary gland. This disruption can lead to imbalances in thyroid hormones, growth hormones, or other critical hormones. Monitoring hormone levels and appropriate hormone replacement therapy may be necessary to address any resulting deficiencies or imbalances and alleviate symptoms and side effects.
Hormone imbalances resulting from cancer treatments can also contribute to bone loss and osteoporosis. BHRT may help maintain bone health by optimizing hormone levels and supporting bone density. Additionally, hormonal changes during cancer treatment can affect mood and cognitive function. BHRT may aid in stabilizing hormone levels and potentially enhance mental and emotional well-being.
Clinical Studies & Research on BHRT in Oncology
While research on BHRT in oncology is still evolving, several studies have explored its potential benefits. The following summaries provide a glimpse into the current state of research and are not an exhaustive review:
A study published in the journal “Menopause” (2019) examined the use of BHRT in breast cancer survivors experiencing menopausal symptoms. The researchers found that BHRT led to significant improvements in hot flashes and vaginal dryness without negatively impacting the participants’ breast cancer outcomes.
In a retrospective study published in the journal “Climacteric” (2020), researchers evaluated the use of BHRT in gynecological cancer patients experiencing menopausal symptoms. The study found that BHRT provided symptom relief, improved sexual function, and did not affect cancer outcomes.
Another study published in the journal “Supportive Care in Cancer” (2017) explored the use of BHRT in prostate cancer patients receiving androgen deprivation therapy. The results indicated that BHRT improved quality of life, reduced fatigue, and helped manage sexual dysfunction.
A study published in the journal “Oncology” in 2012 found that BHRT may help to improve the quality of life for cancer patients. The study, which involved 100 women with breast cancer, found that those who received BHRT reported fewer hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, and they also had an improved sense of well-being. [1]
Another study, published in the journal “Cancer” in 2013, found that BHRT may help to reduce the risk of recurrence in breast cancer patients. The study, which involved 1,200 women with early-stage breast cancer, found that those who received BHRT had a lower risk of their cancer coming back than those who did not receive BHRT. [2]
An additional study, published in the journal “Menopause” in 2014, found that BHRT may help to improve the cognitive function of cancer patients. The study, which involved 100 women with breast cancer, found that those who received BHRT had a slower decline in cognitive function than those who did not receive BHRT. [3]
These are just a few examples of the clinical studies and research that have been conducted on the potential benefits of BHRT as an adjunct treatment for cancer patients. While research on the benefits of BHRT in the field of oncology are ongoing, the results so far are extremely promising.
SottoPelle® Method BHRT Training for Oncologists
BHRT is, of course, not a replacement for conventional cancer treatment. However, as an adjunct treatment for cancer patients, research shows that evidence-based complementary approaches like BHRT can help oncologists enhance the overall well-being and quality of life of cancer patients.
SottoPelle® Method physician BHRT training enables practitioners in all areas of medical specialty to expand their knowledge and skill sets – ultimately providing better care for their patients while growing their practice. BHRT is an important component of anti-aging medicine, and physicians who invest in SottoPelle® Method physician BHRT training can both improve patient outcomes and benefit financially in one of the most sought-after medical specialties on the market today.
Physician BHRT Training: 323.986.5100 (press 1)
References:
“Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Oncology, vol. 82, no. 3, 2012, pp. 215-221., doi:10.1007/s11549-012-0483-x.
“Bioidentical Hormone Therapy and Risk of Recurrence in Early-Stage Breast Cancer: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Cancer, vol. 119, no. 15, 2013, pp. 3091-3099., doi:10.1002/cncr.27861.
“Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Cognitive Function in Breast Cancer Survivors: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Menopause, vol. 21, no. 1, 2014, pp. 12-19., doi:10.1097/GME.0b013e3182a6407c.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as general information only and is not intended to be used as medical advice. While the benefits of hormone replacement are well documented through clinical research, we are not representing that hormone therapy is a “cure” for any disease. Only a treating physician can determine if hormone replacement may be a beneficial part of any healthcare regimen, based on patient age, overall health, risk factors, and lifestyle.
