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Chemotherapy Raises Early Menopause Risk, Experts Warn

10/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Dr. Elizabeth Sakach from Emory University's Winship Cancer Institute explained that chemotherapy significantly increases the risk of early menopause, particularly in women over 40, while radiation has minimal effects.
Hormone therapies do not typically induce menopause but can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes and mood changes.
Sakach emphasized the importance of fertility preservation, noting younger women are more likely to regain ovarian function after treatment.
She also highlighted long-term health risks from treatment-induced menopause, including osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems, and cognitive decline, underscoring the need for comprehensive survivorship care.

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Story summary

Dr. Elizabeth Sakach from Emory University's Winship Cancer Institute explained that chemotherapy significantly increases the risk of early menopause, particularly in women over 40, while radiation has minimal effects.
Hormone therapies do not typically induce menopause but can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes and mood changes.
Sakach emphasized the importance of fertility preservation, noting younger women are more likely to regain ovarian function after treatment.
She also highlighted long-term health risks from treatment-induced menopause, including osteoporosis, cardiovascular problems, and cognitive decline, underscoring the need for comprehensive survivorship care.