Hormone Therapy Cuts Postmenopausal Bone Loss Risk by 69% in New Study

A study presented at the Endocrine Society's ENDO 2026 meeting in Chicago found that hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) significantly lowers the risk of low bone mineral density in post‑menopausal women. Researchers analyzed 387 women who underwent DEXA scans between 2021 and 2025; 33% were using HRT while 67% were not. The HRT group showed a 69% reduced risk of low bone density in the spine and hip, areas prone to fractures. Lead author Diego Espinoza‑Peralta, vice‑president of the Mexican Society of Nutrition and Endocrinology, said the results shift the conversation toward reconsidering HRT for suitable patients.

The findings persisted after adjusting for age, menopause duration, vitamin D levels, smoking and other health conditions. While prior research indicated a 30‑34% fracture risk reduction with HRT, this new analysis underscores a direct protective effect on bone health. Experts note that HRT also alleviates other menopausal symptoms but carries a known increased cancer risk if used beyond recommended durations.