20-year WHI study shows benefits of short-term hormone therapy for younger menopausal women outweigh risks.

Long-term follow-up of the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) finds that hormone therapy fears were overblown. The study shows benefits of hormone therapy for younger menopausal women (under 60) outweigh risks for short-term treatment of menopause symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats. The WHI's findings clarify misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy and support its safety for early menopause treatment.