Menopausal hormone therapy once seemed the answer for many of the conditions women face as they age. It was thought that hormone therapy could ward off heart disease, osteoporosis, and cancer, while improving women's quality of life. But beginning in July 2002, findings emerged from clinical trials that showed this was not so. In fact, long-term use of hormone therapy poses serious risks and may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. The facts presented in this book by the National Institutes of Health (Publication 05-5200) and the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute discusses those findings and gives an overview of such topics as menopause, hormone therapy, and alternative treatments for the symptoms of menopause and the various health risks that come in its wake. It also provides a list of sources you can contact for more information.