['Blood clots (venous thromboembolism) HRT tablets (but not patches or gels) are linked with a higher risk of developing a blood clot. ... ', 'Heart disease and stroke (cardiovascular disease) Studies show that: ... ', 'Breast cancer. ... ', 'Type 2 diabetes. ... ', 'Osteoporosis. ... ', 'Loss of muscle strength. ... ', 'Dementia.']