1.   And another study suggests estrogen may reduce colon cancer risk.

2.   Estrogen also reduces the accretion of abdominal fat, which is a risk factor for heart disease and a major source of cosmetic distress for many middle-aged women.

3.   The low-dose estrogen also reduced hot flashes and vaginal dryness, Mortola noted.

4.   Cauley has previously reported that estrogen reduced the risk of fractures in women who began taking it within five years of menopause and remained on it indefinitely.

5.   Estrogen reduces heart disease risk, and last year a study of women raised the possibility that progestins may provide additional protection.