-increased risk ofbreast cancer? Not entirely. Dr Anuradha Arasu, from Cancer Research UK, is quick to point out other research has found similar -results. "Science is never just about one study," she says. "And 20 others have also found a cancer link. "Plus there's been a significant drop in the breast cancer rate that appears to coincide with the drop in use of HRT. "So I think the message is the same -- women shouldn't suffer unnecessarily during the menopause, but should still avoid using HRT if possible." Other experts, however, agree with -Dr Miriam and view these new findings as further proof that HRT should stop being seen as a high-risk treatment. "Remember, any drug has side effects, even everyday ones like aspirin." Who can take HRT without worry? All studies into HRT have suggested there's no increased risk of breast cancer for women under 50 who are using the therapy to treat early menopause symptoms, such as post-hysterectomy. And for women who take HRT post-50, there's very little risk if the therapy is taken for less than five years. After five years of HRT the associated risks do go up for women over 50, and get higher the longer you take it for, but they remain comparatively small. HRT is not recommended if you've a personal or family history of breast, ovarian or endometrial cancer, and should be used only under supervision with a history of heart disease, stroke, blood clots or liver disease.