What is important to assess before starting hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women?

Assessing the history of breast or endometrial cancer before starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in menopausal women is crucial because these conditions have a significant relationship with the risks associated with hormone therapy. Hormones can stimulate the growth of hormone-sensitive tissues, and women with a personal history of these cancers may be at increased risk for recurrence or developing new cancers when exposed to hormones. Therefore, a thorough cancer history helps healthcare providers to weigh the benefits and risks of initiating hormone therapy for symptom relief in menopausal women.

In contrast, while current weight, family history of osteoporosis, and menstrual cycle regularity may provide useful background information, they do not directly inform the immediate risks associated with initiating HRT. Body weight can influence estrogen metabolism, family history can indicate potential osteoporosis risk, and menstrual cycle regularity can give insight into ovarian function, but these factors are not as critical in determining the appropriateness of HRT in the context of prior cancer history.