What is the effect of hormone therapy on bone?

• A. Prevents bone loss and reduces fracture risk.
• B. Causes bone loss.
• C. No effect on bone.
• D. Increases bone fragility.

Answer: (A)

Estrogen helps protect bone by limiting bone resorption. Hormone therapy replenishes estrogen levels after menopause, which slows osteoclast activity and lowers bone turnover, preserving bone mineral density. As a result, fracture risk—especially vertebral fractures—is reduced compared with not using therapy. The other choices imply no benefit or harm to bone, which doesn’t align with how estrogen supports the skeleton. Of course, the decision to use hormone therapy must balance bone benefits with potential risks elsewhere in the body.