What's happened
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has updated its guidelines, stating that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the preferred treatment for managing menopause symptoms. This decision follows significant public feedback on previous draft guidelines that suggested cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as an alternative.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Independent highlights that NICE's updated guidance emphasizes HRT as the preferred treatment for menopause symptoms, countering previous suggestions that CBT could replace it. Dr. Marie Anne Ledingham from NICE noted that the risks associated with HRT are low and that it can significantly improve quality of life for women experiencing menopause. In contrast, The Guardian reported criticism from some MPs and campaigners who feel the guidelines do not adequately address the complexities of HRT options and access to treatment. This reflects a broader debate on how best to support women's health during menopause, as highlighted by various experts across the articles.
How we got here
NICE's revised guidance comes after a controversial draft last November that proposed CBT as a primary treatment for menopause symptoms. The backlash prompted a reassessment of the recommendations, emphasizing HRT's role.
More on these topics
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The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence is an executive non-departmental public body of the Department of Health in England, which publishes guidelines in four areas:
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Hormone replacement therapy, also known as menopausal hormone therapy or postmenopausal hormone therapy, is a form of hormone therapy used to treat symptoms associated with female menopause.