Hormone Therapy and Breast Cancer: What the Latest Evidence Shows | Top Breast Cancer Surgeon
Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished on June 16, 2026
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Dr. Jen Simmons discusses the risks of hormone therapy, particularly synthetic progestogens, in relation to breast cancer. She emphasizes the importance of lifestyle choices in prevention and the need for better education among healthcare providers regarding hormone therapy.
Key Points
- Synthetic progestogens increase breast cancer risk; estrogen alone may decrease risk.
- Duration of use of synthetic hormonal birth control correlates with breast cancer risk.
- Education for providers on bioidentical hormones is essential.
- Breast cancer is largely preventable through diet, alcohol moderation, and stress management.
- Innovative tests like the Aria Tears test can help assess breast cancer risk early.
The Impact of Hormone Therapy on Breast Cancer Risk: Insights from Dr. Jen Simmons
In a recent conversation with Dr. Jen Simmons, a fellowship-trained breast surgeon and integrative oncologist, critical insights into the relationship between hormone therapy and breast cancer risk were discussed. This discussion is particularly relevant for women considering hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or those currently on hormonal birth control.
Understanding the Risks of Hormone Therapy
Dr. Simmons highlighted that synthetic progestogens are the primary concern when it comes to increased breast cancer risk. Data from the Women's Health Initiative revealed that the only significant increase in breast cancer risk was found in women using a combination of synthetic progestogen and conjugated equine estrogen. Interestingly, estrogen alone did not show a similar risk increase and, in some instances, was associated with a decreased incidence of breast cancer.
Key Findings from Relevant Studies
- A Danish study involving 1.8 million women showed a linear relationship between hormonal birth control containing synthetic progestogens and breast cancer risk.
- The risk of developing breast cancer increases with the length of time on synthetic progestogens. After five years of discontinuation, the risk resets to that of the general population.
- Many providers are not adequately trained in hormone therapy, often resorting to prescribing birth control pills without understanding long-term implications.
- Education for healthcare providers on bioidentical hormones is crucial to ensure safe and effective treatment for women.
Breast Cancer Prevention Strategies
Dr. Simmons emphasized that breast cancer is largely preventable through lifestyle choices. Key strategies include:
- Nutrition: Eating a diet free from processed foods and rich in whole foods can help mitigate cancer risk.
- Alcohol Consumption: According to the American Cancer Society, there is no safe amount of alcohol for women regarding breast cancer risk.
- Sleep and Stress Management: Adequate sleep is vital for overall health and immune function, while managing stress can reduce inflammatory responses in the body.
- Regular Monitoring: Using innovative tests like the Aria Tears test, which screens for inflammatory markers associated with breast cancer, can help identify risk early.
Addressing Emotional Health
Emotional health also plays a significant role in breast cancer risk. Dr. Simmons noted that unresolved trauma can shift body chemistry into a stress state that may increase cancer risk. Incorporating joy and laughter into daily life is essential for maintaining a positive mental state, which in turn supports overall health.
Conclusion
The conversation with Dr. Jen Simmons sheds light on the complexities of hormone therapy and its implications for breast cancer risk. As women navigate their health care choices, understanding these risks and the importance of lifestyle factors is crucial. By prioritizing education, nutrition, and emotional well-being, women can empower themselves in their health journeys.