New figures released by the NHS Business Service Authority (NHSBSA) show that the number of patients being prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in England has increased by nearly a third in a year, rising from 1.8 million to 2.3 million. The statistics come after high-profile menopause awareness campaigns by celebrities, such as Davina McCall, and government action over a shortage of certain HRT drugs. The data indicates that patients are now receiving a wider range of HRT, including oestrogen gel, which has previously been in short supply.
The latest figures, which were collected between April 2022 and March 2023 and cover nearly 11 million items of HRT medication prescribed in England, also show a rise of 47% in the total number of prescriptions compared to the 2021-2022 period. The NHSBSA suggests that new and existing patients are being prescribed an increasing number and wider range of HRT items, including the substitution of drugs experiencing supply shortages with similar medications.
While some believe the rise in HRT prescriptions indicates that more women are benefiting from the treatment option, others are concerned about unrealistic expectations surrounding the drug. Dr Paula Briggs, a consultant in sexual and reproductive health at Liverpool Women’s Hospital, has cautioned against thinking of HRT as a cure for depression or a replacement for lifestyle changes such as exercise and healthy eating. There are also concerns about the lack of information and support available to women regarding the menopause.
Campaigners, including those running women’s health support groups, have called for greater access to information and advice about HRT and menopause symptoms. The UK government has responded by investing £25 million in women’s health hubs and introducing pre-payment certificates for eligible HRT patients, which entitle them to an annual supply of the drug for £19.30, covering all eligible HRT medications needed during that period. The NHS has also launched a new online HRT hub that provides information and advice about menopause symptoms and HRT options
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