The Menopause and Cancer Podcast

Episode 193 - Testosterone after breast cancer? What is the current evidence? (Part 2)

In this week’s episode, Dani continues her conversation with Dr Sarah Glynne, GP, menopause specialist, and co-author of the new paper “Menopausal Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer Patients: What Is the Current Evidence?” - to explore one of the most frequently asked questions left after last week’s episode: testosterone therapy after breast cancer. This is Part 2 of our special series following the publication of the new paper. In this episode, Dani and Dr Glynne discuss: What testosterone actually does for energy, mood, and libido. The studies we have so far - and how reliable they are. Whether testosterone can convert into oestrogen. How testing works and when it might be appropriate. Whether testosterone therapy can or should be used alongside endocrine treatments. The paper is here: https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/9900/menopausal_hormone_therapy_for_breast_cancer.532.aspx [https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/9900/menopausal_hormone_therapy_for_breast_cancer.532.aspx] The Meno ABS trial: https://www.londonbreastcancer.com/meno-abc-trial [https://www.londonbreastcancer.com/meno-abc-trial] Find Dr Glynne here https://www.clairemellon.co.uk/dr-sarah-glynne [https://www.clairemellon.co.uk/dr-sarah-glynne] The episode on testosterone with Dr Rebecca Glaser is Ep 56 The episode with a patient on testosterone therapy is Ep 97 Read all about HRT after breast cancer in Dani’s book “Navigating Menopause After Cancer’ in chapter 6: Buy it here: https://amzn.eu/d/0uLveeE [https://amzn.eu/d/0uLveeE]  Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro 03:34 "Testosterone Use in Women" 06:16 Testosterone Debate: Data vs. Choice 10:38 Menopause Consultation & Treatment Approaches 17:45 "Testosterone After Breast Cancer" 21:21 Complexity of Menopause Treatment Conversations 23:49 Vaginal Oestrogen Connect with us: For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org [https://www.menopauseandcancer.org] Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer [https://www.instagram.com/menopause_and_cancer/] Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub [https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub/]

Episode 192 - Menopausal Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer Patients: What is the Current Evidence?

In this week’s episode of The Menopause and Cancer Podcast, Dani speaks with two of the authors behind the new paper, Menopausal hormone therapy for breast cancer patients: what is the current evidence? Professor Jayant Vaidya, Consultant Oncoplastic Breast Surgeon, and Dr Sarah Glynne, GP and menopause specialist. This is the first of a two-part special exploring what this new paper and upcoming MENO-ABC clinical trial could mean for breast cancer survivors curious about HRT or already on HRT. Up until recently, most experts thought a study like this would never happen — but it’s happening. Together, they unpack: * What’s new about this paper — and why it matters. * The scientific and ethical concept of equipoise (yes, Dani learned a new word!). * How the new MENO-ABC trial could change what we know about HRT use after breast cancer. * What this research might mean for patients, clinicians, and the future of survivorship care. Next week: Don’t miss part two, where Dani and Dr Sarah Glynne take a deep dive into testosterone use after breast cancer — what we know, what we don’t, and where the conversation is heading. Links & Resources: The paper: https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/9900/menopausal_hormone_therapy_for_breast_cancer.532.aspx [https://journals.lww.com/menopausejournal/fulltext/9900/menopausal_hormone_therapy_for_breast_cancer.532.aspx] The trial: https://www.londonbreastcancer.com/meno-abc-trial [https://www.londonbreastcancer.com/meno-abc-trial] Find Dr Glynne here https://www.clairemellon.co.uk/dr-sarah-glynne [https://www.clairemellon.co.uk/dr-sarah-glynne] Find Professor Vaidya here https://professorvaidya.co.uk/ [https://professorvaidya.co.uk/] Watch Dani’s 5-part Youtube series on HRT after breast cancer, start here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heTF5ufX59Y&list=PLsUEBZ4ZwowpAQ1ueFUHlzDvzAtD_hyQr&index=6 Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro 08:01 "HRT Debate and Its Impact" 09:48 Evidence-Based Breast Cancer Trial 13:46 Advances in Breast Cancer Treatment 16:43 HRT Risks Post-Breast Cancer 20:52 Oestrogen Risks in Cancer Relapse 23:17 "Clinical Trial Equipoise Explained" 29:00 "Expert Consensus and Criticism" 29:47 Collaborative Review Strengthened Research 32:52 Breaking Shame Through Conversations 36:04 Weighing Risks for Quality Life 41:57 "Prioritising Quality Over Longevity" 43:08 HRT and Breast Cancer Relapse Risk Read all about HRT after breast cancer in Dani’s book “Navigating Menopause After Cancer’ in chapter 6: Buy it here: https://amzn.eu/d/0uLveeE [https://amzn.eu/d/0uLveeE]

Episode 191 - I can’t shift the weight - should I consider the GLP-1 Medicines?

Many people in our community say it has become virtually impossible to shift the weight since cancer and menopause. So of course we ask ourselves: What role do GLP-1 medicines play in cancer survivorship and what do we really know about their safety, risks, and benefits?  In this episode, I’m joined by Caroline Tweedie, currently working as the lead cancer nurse in the North East of England. With over 17 years’ experience as a Clinical Nurse Breast Specialist, Caroline has dedicated her career to improving the lives of those affected by breast cancer and sits on the NICE committee shaping national breast cancer guidance. We explore, with curiosity - and never with judgement: - What GLP-1 medicines are and why they are so effective - Safety concerns and what the evidence shows for cancer survivors - Why these drugs matter in breast cancer survivorship - The role of GLP-1s in weight, muscle, bone health, inflammation, and fatigue - Natural strategies that may work on similar pathways - Key risks to be aware of: hair loss, sarcopenia, drug absorption, and endocrine therapy interactions - What happens when you stop taking the drug - Practical advice for patients and clinicians navigating this new landscape Caroline also shares her insights on why weight loss isn’t the same as fitness, why muscle is the “anti-fatigue organ,” and what both patients and healthcare professionals need to know before considering GLP-1 use in survivorship care. This is a nuanced, evidence-based discussion that puts patients at the centre. Whether you’re a survivor curious about GLP-1s or a healthcare professional supporting patients, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical takeaways. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro 12:09 Survivorship Challenges Beyond Cancer Treatment 15:35 Weight Loss Treatments: Risks & Support 16:42 Bariatric Surgery vs Rapid Weight Loss 22:18 Protein Intake for Menopause Health 25:04 "Deciding on GLP1 Treatment" 29:06 GLP-1 Eligibility Criteria Explained 35:40 "Drug Trials and Patient Safety" 42:19 Obesity Support After Cancer 43:31 Diabetes Drugs, Costs, Future Hope Connect with us: For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org [https://www.menopauseandcancer.org] Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer [https://www.instagram.com/menopause_and_cancer/] Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub [https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub/]

Episode 190 - Inflammation and Menopause After Cancer: How Food Can Help

Inflammation is a word we hear everywhere these days but what does it really mean for cancer survivors going through treatment-induced menopause? Could the foods we eat, the drinks we choose, and the daily habits we build really make a difference to menopause symptoms like joint pain, hot flushes, fatigue, and brain fog? In this episode, I’m joined by nutritionist Julie Webb, a specialist in oncology nutrition, to break down the science of inflammation and turn it into practical, everyday advice. Together, we explore:- - What inflammation is and why it matters after cancer treatment - How treatment-induced menopause can increase inflammation in the body - The role of diet, which foods help reduce inflammation and which ones make it worse - Omega-3s and fibre - Practical tips for eating well when you may worry about weight Whether you’re newly out of treatment or years into survivorship, this conversation is full of simple, actionable steps to help you feel stronger, calmer, and more in control. For more information on how diet cane ease menopause symptoms, buy my new book: Navigating Menopause After Cancer: https://amzn.eu/d/2BycL21 [https://amzn.eu/d/2BycL21]  Episode Highlights: 00:00 Intro 04:46 Inflammation: Essential Immune Response 08:58 Understanding Body Changes and Symptoms 10:09 "Tips to Reduce Inflammation" 16:53 "10 Portions: A Healthy Challenge" 21:08 "Helpful Eating Habits" 24:10 Reduce Inflammation: Beans & Veg 30:48 Low Fibre Diet Tips 39:00 Boost Gut Health Naturally 45:29 Turmeric and Contraindications Connect with us: For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org [https://www.menopauseandcancer.org] Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer [https://www.instagram.com/menopause_and_cancer/] Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub [https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub/]

Episode 189 - Breathe In, Chill Out: Our New Wellbeing Series Is Here

“I don’t have time.” “I can’t switch my brain off.” “I’ve tried it before - it didn’t work.” Sound familiar? In todays episode, Dani explores how easy it is to not try breathwork or meditation when you’re tired, overwhelmed, or just fed up. But here’s the truth: these simple tools can make a real difference, especially for people navigating menopause after cancer. In this solo episode, Dani reads a little from her book, shares a short poem, and introduces our new Wellbeing Series on YouTube — guided meditations and mindfulness practices designed to help you actually start. No pressure. No perfection. Just a moment to breathe. Watch the Wellbeing Series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseandCancer?sub_confirmation=1 [https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseandCancer?sub_confirmation=1] Navigating Menopause After Cancer: https://amzn.eu/d/2y957Oy [https://amzn.eu/d/2y957Oy]  Episode Highlights: 00:00 "Intro 04:44 "Wellbeing Series for Our Community" 07:33 Practical Meditation for Everyday Life 11:21 Prioritising Self-Care Through Planning 13:51 "Mindfulness Benefits for Women" 18:24 "Embracing Imperfection in Meditation" 22:44 "Self-Care Series on YouTube" 24:03 She Let Go by Safire Rose  Connect with us: For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org [https://www.menopauseandcancer.org] Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer [https://www.instagram.com/menopause_and_cancer/] Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub [https://www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub/]