Dr. Weeks’ Comment: Poison is always a matter of dosage and the same applies to carcinogenic agents like estrogen. The key issue is balance, hormonal balance wherein the forces of proliferative estrogen are balanced by the calming forces of progesterone. Estrogen dominance – a condition which causes premenstrual cramps and menopausal concerns as well as cystic processes and fibroids – is easily treated. But now we learn again (since 17 years ago) that birth control pills are carcinogenic. Bio-identical hormones are essential. Synthetic knock off near miss hormones such as progestins and horse estrogens are dangerous, albeit very profitable for big pHARMa.
An expert panel convened by the National Institute of Environmental Health Science’s National Toxicology Program has recommended adding steroidal estrogens, such as those used in oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, to the government’s list of carcinogens. A number of studies have established that estrogen use is associated with an increased risk of uterine, endometrial, and breast cancers. The agency is soliciting public comment before taking any action.