Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) may offer significant protective benefits against primary liver cancer, according to recent findings from a large-scale Swedish population-based cohort study. Traditionally, clinicians have noted a distinct sex disparity in liver cancer incidence, with men being significantly more affected than women. This difference suggests that endogenous sex hormones might play a crucial role in preventing hepatocarcinogenesis. Consequently, researchers investigated whether exogenous hormone use could replicate this protective effect in postmenopausal women.

The Link Between Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Hepatocellular Carcinoma

The study analyzed over 1.3 million women to determine the association between hormone use and specific liver cancer subtypes. Remarkably, MHT users demonstrated a 55% lower risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma compared to non-users. This protective association remained consistent across different hormone formulations. Specifically, both estrogen-only and combined estrogen-progestogen therapies showed similar risk reductions. However, the study found no significant association between hormone use and the risk of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

Interestingly, the protective effect of menopausal hormone therapy appeared more pronounced in older populations. Women aged 60 years or older experienced a 63% reduction in risk. Furthermore, the analysis adjusted for multiple confounding factors, including smoking, alcohol-related diagnoses, and metabolic conditions like obesity and diabetes. Moreover, the results were consistent even after accounting for the use of statins and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These findings provide reassuring evidence for women considering hormone therapy for symptom management, highlighting potential non-gynecological benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does menopausal hormone therapy prevent all types of liver cancer?

No, the protective association is specific to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The study found no significant link between hormone therapy and the risk of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma.

Is estrogen-only therapy more effective than combined MHT in reducing liver cancer risk?

Both estrogen-only and combined estrogen-progestogen therapies showed similar risk reductions for hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients using either formulation experienced a significantly lower risk compared to non-users.

How does age influence the protective effect of MHT on the liver?

The risk reduction appears more pronounced in older women. Specifically, users aged 60 years or older demonstrated a 63% reduction in the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or a professional relationship. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.

References

1. Huang Y et al. Menopausal hormone therapy and risk of liver cancer in a swedish population-based cohort study. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2026 Mar 22. doi: undefined. PMID: 41866298.
2. McGlynn KA et al. Menopausal hormone therapy use and risk of primary liver cancer in the Clinical Practice Research Datalink. Int J Cancer. 2016;138(9):2146-2153.
3. Tseng YT et al. Long-term effects of hormone replacement therapy on hepatocellular carcinoma risk and overall survival rate in women with chronic hepatitis C. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2023.