Pulmonary hypertension is a condition that affects about 1% of the global population and is more common in females. Researchers believe that hormones, particularly estrogen, may play a role in the development of pulmonary hypertension in women. A recent study conducted at The University of Arizona College of Medicine Tucson suggests that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may improve symptoms of pulmonary hypertension in females. The study, presented at the American Thoracic Society 2024 International Conference, focused on female participants with pulmonary hypertension classified into different groups based on the cause of their condition.
The researchers recruited a total of 742 female participants for the study, including those with pulmonary hypertension and healthy controls. They examined the impact of both endogenous (lifetime duration of menstruation) and exogenous (use of HRT) hormone exposure on pulmonary hypertension. The study found that greater lifetime duration of menstruation was associated with lower average pulmonary arterial pressure across all pulmonary hypertension groups. Additionally, the use of hormone replacement therapy was linked to lower mean pulmonary artery pressure, higher right ventricular function, and improved outcomes in participants with pulmonary hypertension Group 1.
The preliminary data from the study showed positive results with improvements in mean pulmonary arterial pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance, and right ventricular function in participants with pulmonary hypertension who used HRT. However, further research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy for individuals with pulmonary hypertension. The study also sparked controversy among experts regarding the use of HRT and its effects on the cardiovascular system, with some highlighting potential benefits and risks associated with hormone therapy.
While the findings of this study suggest a potential link between estrogen and improved outcomes in pulmonary hypertension, more research is needed to validate these results. Experts emphasize the importance of conducting randomized controlled trials to confirm the relationship between estrogen and pulmonary hypertension improvement. The study provides a new avenue of research into potential therapeutic approaches for pulmonary hypertension, a challenging condition to treat. Ultimately, the decision to use hormone replacement therapy for pulmonary hypertension will remain individualized, taking into account each patient’s specific needs and symptoms.
