Which complication is acknowledged as a risk of hormone therapy for perimenopausal symptoms?

• A. Anaphylaxis
• B. Osteoporosis
• C. Breast cancer
• D. Vitamin deficiency

Answer: (C)

Hormone therapy for perimenopausal symptoms is about balancing relief of vasomotor symptoms and protection of bones with potential long-term risks. The risk most clearly acknowledged in this context is an increased chance of breast cancer with prolonged use of combined estrogen-progestin therapy. This association has been demonstrated in large studies, and the risk tends to rise with longer duration of treatment and then diminish after stopping. Because of this, breast cancer is the major safety concern weighed when considering hormone therapy.

Osteoporosis isn’t a risk in this setting—it’s something hormone therapy helps prevent. Anaphylaxis would be an uncommon, acute allergic reaction and isn’t a typical risk highlighted for long-term hormone therapy. Vitamin deficiency isn’t linked to hormone therapy as a concern either.