The Women’s Health Initiative

The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) is a major long-term research study launched in 1991 to address women's health issues, particularly those related to heart disease, cancer, and osteoporosis. It aimed to understand how diet, lifestyle, and hormone therapy affect health in postmenopausal women. The initiative involved over 160,000 participants and provided valuable insights, influencing guidelines and practices in women's healthcare. Key findings challenged some beliefs about hormone replacement therapy, highlighting both benefits and risks, which reshaped how doctors approach treatment for aging women. Overall, WHI has significantly contributed to improving women's health outcomes.