Hormone therapy for postmenopausal endometrial cancer survivors: a survey among Greek obstetricians-gynaecologists

Purpose of investigation: In this study we evaluated the prescription attitude of Greek obstetricians-gynaecologists towards hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for endometrial cancer survivors. Methods: An anonymous questionnaire was sent to 900 members of the Hellenic Society of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, presenting a hypothetical case of an endometrial cancer survivor with indications for HRT, followed by a series of relevant questions. Results: Three hundred and three valid responses were received and analysed according to age, gender and practice setting. HRT would be prescribed by 30.4% of gynaecologists; as far as type of regimen is concerned, 67.4% would prescribe tibolone, 22.8% estrogen-only and 9.8% estrogen plus progestagen. In contrast, 69.6% would not prescribe HRT due to the fear of endometrial cancer recurrence (88.2%), development of breast cancer (2.8%) or both (4.7%); among them, 28.4% would prescribe central nervous system (CNS) medications, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), phyto-oestrogens or biphosphonates, as alternates. Conclusions: One out of three Greek gynaecologists would prescribe HRT to endometrial cancer survivors. Alternative therapies, mainly CNS medications, would be suggested by the opposers.

Endometrial cancer survivors; Hormone replacement therapy; Tibolone; Estrogen replacement therapy; Estrogenprogestogen combination; Prescription attitude

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