According to a NewsVista reporter, a new study has raised concerns for women with type 2 diabetes who are taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in tablet form.
Researchers found that women with the condition who use HRT pills face double the risk of developing a pulmonary embolism — a dangerous blood clot in the lungs — compared to those using skin patches. The study also revealed a 21% higher risk of heart disease among tablet users.
Experts suggest the difference comes from how the body absorbs oestrogen. Pills are broken down by the liver before reaching the bloodstream, which may disrupt the balance between clotting and anti-clotting proteins. Patches, however, release smaller doses directly into the blood, reducing these risks.
Lead researcher Dr. Matthew Anson advised: “Given the increased risks with oral HRT, women with type 2 diabetes should not be prescribed oral oestrogen therapy.”
The study, which tracked more than 36,000 women over five years, found no significant difference in stroke, cancer, or DVT risk between tablets and patches. Still, doctors warn that women living with type 2 diabetes should carefully consider the safest HRT option with their physician.
