A report from the Million Women Study, an observational study of women in the United Kingdom, suggests a small, but statistically significant, increase in ovarian cancer risk among women taking hormone therapy. This report was released online and will be included in the April 21, 2007 issue of The Lancet.

Findings from this study and other studies suggest the elevation of ovarian cancer risk is associated with higher cumulative doses of hormone therapy due to either a longer duration of therapy (more than 10 years) and higher doses. Current, practice recommendations call for the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration necessary to achieve the desired clinical effect.

Other published results from studies evaluating the potential relationship between hormone therapy use and ovarian cancer risk have been inconsistent. However, it is important to note that the potential risk of ovarian cancer, while small, is included in the class labelling for hormone therapy. The information contained in product labelling is primarily based on the estrogen plus progestin findings of the largest prospective study, the Women's Health Initiative (WHI).

"Hormone therapy remains a good health care choice for the appropriate woman seeking the relief of moderate to severe menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal atrophy, and the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis," says Joseph Camardo, senior vice president of Global Medical Affairs for Wyeth Pharmaceuticals.

Wyeth continues to encourage women to speak with their health care professional to determine what treatment options for their menopausal symptoms are most appropriate based upon their individual circumstances and risk profile.