Considering some of the confusion created by the recent findings of the Women’s Health Initiative, it is probably not surprising that information was the leading unmet need we identified in the New York community. Should hormone replacement therapy (HRT) still be prescribed? And, if so, using what medications? And for how long? How can women, for whom HRT may be dangerous, be identified? What are the indications for HRT? Who should get it and who should not? What can HRT do and where have its beneficial effect been over represented?

These are only a handful, amongst many more, questions which have become subject of routine cocktail party chatter, as the public perception is reflective of differences in opinion amongst health care professionals, often, in addition, confusingly reported by the lay media. The Women’s Health Initiative has, unfortunately, created such confusion not only amongst the lay public but, also, amongst physicians. There is, simply, no longer unanimity amongst health care providers on how the perimenopausal and menopausal woman should be treated. Even experts on menopause disagree on how the results of the Women’s Health Initiative should be interpreted and the discourse, even in the medical literature, has assumed an, at times, rancorous tone.

Responsible information is, therefore, crucial for patients. MRI has no political interests in the ongoing disputes amongst health care providers in the field. Our only interest is the well being of our patients. The information we, therefore, are offering our patients represents the best analysis of published scientific data we can come up with. Where the answer to a question is unknown, we will say so! Where data lends itself to more than one interpretation, we will advise accordingly! Finally, where adequate data is lacking, we will be very loud and clear about this fact, so that patients can make up their minds, whether it is worthwhile to pursue treatment or not. The latter point is especially pertinent when it comes to many of the so-called natural remedies, which are sold over the counter, often supported by gigantic advertisement budgets.

MRI does not oppose the use of natural products. Indeed, very much to the contrary! Many natural products, especially if dispenses by knowledgeable practitioners of ancient Asian medical practices, have been found extremely useful in treating many menopausal symptoms. We object, however, to much of the hype and unproven claims which, at times, surround commercial products that we find being heavily advertised to the public.