Decoding the Relationship Between Hormonal Factors and Cancer Risk with Jeffrey Dach MD

On this episode of the DR. K Show with Dr. Michael Karlfeldt is joined by Jeffrey Dach MD. Dr. Jeffrey Dach discusses the critical differences between synthetic and bioidentical hormones, explaining how the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study in 2002 dramatically reduced hormone replacement therapy prescriptions due to breast cancer concerns. He clarifies that the study used synthetic progestin combined with Premarin (horse estrogen), which led to misleading conclusions about hormone safety. Interestingly, the second arm of the study published in 2004 showed that Premarin alone actually reduced breast cancer risk by 23%, contradicting conventional beliefs about estrogen. 

The molecular biology of different estrogens reveals why certain forms are protective while others may increase risks. Dr. Dach explains that Premarin targets estrogen receptor beta, which provides breast cancer protection. He contrasts this with human estrogens derived from cholesterol and discusses the benefits of estriol in bioidentical hormone therapy. This scientific understanding helps explain why natural forms of hormones often have different safety profiles than their synthetic counterparts. Natural progesterone and testosterone play crucial roles in hormone replacement therapy and cancer prevention. 

Unlike synthetic progestins, natural progesterone reduces breast cancer risk and provides neuroprotective benefits. Similarly, testosterone contributes to cancer prevention when used appropriately. Dr. Dach emphasizes that using the correct forms of these hormones is essential for achieving their protective effects while avoiding the risks associated with synthetic versions. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy offers significant benefits for bone density, muscle mass, brain function, mood, and cognitive abilities. Dr. Dach contrasts these positive outcomes with the negative effects often seen with pharmaceutical drugs prescribed for menopausal symptoms. He argues that maintaining proper hormonal balance is fundamental for overall well-being and longevity, suggesting that the medical community needs better education about bioidentical hormone options for patients experiencing hormonal changes.

• The Women's Health Initiative study caused a dramatic decline in hormone replacement therapy prescriptions, though later findings revealed Premarin alone actually reduced breast cancer risk by 23%.
• Premarin targets estrogen receptor beta (ERβ), providing breast cancer protective effects unlike synthetic progestins which can increase cancer risks.
• Natural progesterone offers anti-cancer activities and neuroprotective benefits that synthetic versions don't provide.
• Testosterone, when used appropriately in hormone replacement therapy, can contribute to cancer prevention and overall health.
• Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy supports bone density, muscle mass, brain function, and cognitive abilities without many of the negative effects associated with pharmaceutical alternatives for menopausal symptoms.

Jeffrey Dach's book; Bioidentical Hormones 101 second Edition.
https://amzn.to/3GpQxQp
Note: the ebook is availabe for 99 cents.
The paperback is not out yet.
Much of the book can be found here for free:
https://jeffreydachmd.com/bioidentical-hormones-articles-jeffrey-dach-md/

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