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Sound Medicine -- September 20, 2003

Hosts Barbara Lewis and Dr. Kathy Miller talk to physicians and researchers about:

Breast Cancer and the Komen Foundation

Risks and Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy

Real Media | Windows Media

Breast Cancer and the Komen Foundation

More women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year, but fewer women are dying from the disease. This is due to better screening, as well as the generally increasing lifespan. American women have a relatively high rate of breast cancer compared to women around the world. We do not know why, although this might be due to different genetic backgrounds and dietary influences. Women can decrese their risk by having regular mammograms, and examining their own breasts. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

There are many organizations aimed at eradicating breast cancer. Among the most well known and best in fundraising ability is the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. This year, the Komen Foundation celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Race for the Cure, a benefit that raises funds and awareness for breast cancer.

Susan Braun, president and chief executive officer, tells us how she joined the Komen Foundation seven years ago. The organization strives to eradicate breast cancer as a life-threatening disease by advancing research, education, screening and treatment. Ms. Braun will be in Indianapolis for a benefit event called Sing for the Cure on Sunday, October 5.

Resources:

The National Cancer Institute has many resources related to prevention, treatment, and clinical trials for breast cancer.

Visit websites for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation: the national organization and Indianapolis affiliate.

Y-ME of Central Indiana is a breast cancer organization dedicated to giving ongoing support and information to breast cancer patients and their families.

Risks and Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy

Recent research has shown that hormone replacement therapy increases the risk of various diseases and ailments, including breast cancer, Alzheimer's disease, heart attack and stroke. This is troubling news for women who benefit from hormone therapy, and complicated for physicians who have to weigh the risks and benefits before prescribing hormones to women.

Dr. Marguerite Shepard, professor emeritus of obstetrics and gynecology at the Indiana University School of Medicine, helps us weigh the risks and benefits. She suggests that women consider their family histories, symptoms and needs, and make an individual choice. This is not easy when there is so much information to filter. Dr. Shepard will be giving a free public talk about hormone therapy at the IU School of Medicine's Mini Medical School on Tuesday, October 7 in downtown Indianapolis.

Resources:

This article from MayoClinic.com investigates hormone replacement therapy and its alternatives.

Questions and answers about hormone replacement therapy from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

The National Institutes of Health provide an abundance of resources related to HRT.