Natural Hormone Balance: Gaining Ground In The Fight Against Breast Cancer

Main Category: Breast Cancer
Also Included In: Endocrinology
Article Date: 01 Nov 2008 - 0:00 PDT

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The art and science of hormone balancing vs. hormone replacement (HRT) is becoming the 'new normal' among many experts who believe that breast cancer and its risks can be prevented. According to David Zava, PH.D., biochemist/cancer researcher and co-author of the landmark book, "What Your Doctor May Not Tell You about Breast Cancer: How Hormone Balance Can Help Save Your Life", nearly all risk factors associated with breast cancer stem from an imbalance of high estrogen levels in the body. Also known as "estrogen dominance" it is common during menopause, and in younger women who can't ovulate regularly, causing imbalances in hormone supply.

Dr. Zava points out that, "breast cancer differs from other cancers in that it can be promoted and stimulated by specific hormones, and also slowed or stopped by specific hormones." So as estrogen grows, multiplies and divides cells in the body, its alter-ego progesterone, acts as a check and balance to regulate growth and promote balance between these powerful hormones.

Of the thousands of lives breast cancer will claim this year the majority will be among baby boomers, posing special dangers for the millions of forty to 60-year-old women still using HRT for menopause relief. Since the Women's Health Initiative was halted in 2002 citing greater risks for breast cancer (and other diseases) among HRT users, some two million women have switched to bioidentical hormones which mimic the body's own natural supply. Lifestyles of natural hormone balance show a big shift towards hormone-free foods, 'green' products, and exercise programs designed to counteract stress.

ZRT Laboratory, founded by Dr. Zava, has pioneered research into the hormonal links to breast cancer and testing to detect hidden hormonal imbalances that can put women at risk. ZRT's home collection kits make it convenient to collect saliva and blood spot hormone samples at the right time of the day or month and to send them to the lab by regular mail for processing. Now in its eleventh year, ZRT works with thousands of health care providers and has run over a million hormone test results.

To find information on hormone testing and a referral to a natural hormone friendly provider, visit b Women in Balance provides up to date information on natural hormone balance at http://www.womeninbalance.org

ZRT Laboratory
http://www.zrtlab.com