Diabetes in the peri-menopausal period - position statement

ABSTRACT

Menopause and oestrogen deficiency result in adverse changes in various lipoproteins and calcium metabolism, which may lead to increased risk of coronary artery disease, osteoporosis and Alzheimer's disease. Diabetic women are also at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, stroke, endometrial cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Hormone replacement therapy has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, endometrial cancer, and may even reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The purpose of this review is to demonstrate that sufficient evidence now exists to confirm that hormone replacement therapy is both safe and beneficial for the perimenopausal and post-menopausal diabetic woman.(AU)