Overview
- The study, presented at ENDO 2026 in Chicago on Sunday, analyzed DXA scans from 387 postmenopausal women and reported that users of menopausal hormone therapy had a 69% lower adjusted odds of low bone mineral density (OR 0.31; 95% CI, 0.19–0.50).
- Women using hormone therapy had significantly higher lumbar spine and total hip T-scores than nonusers, with differences reaching P < .001 in the reported comparisons.
- Researchers used a single certified DXA technician and densitometrist to limit measurement variation, but the analysis was retrospective, had a modest sample size, and lacked details on specific hormone formulations and routes of administration.
- Secondary results showed that more years since menopause and current smoking were linked to higher odds of low BMD, while higher vitamin D levels were linked to lower odds of low BMD.
- The findings echo prior trial evidence that estrogen preserves bone but do not prove causation; clinicians should weigh these potential bone benefits against known MHT risks and await peer-reviewed publication before changing practice.