Breast cancer is probably the leading cause of death in women and it happens is men too. An advance in breast cancer treatment may change follow-up therapy for the disease. In a multi-center study of post-menopausal women with estrogen-dependent breast cancer, doctors found that Anastrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, was more effective than Tamoxifen. Tamoxifen cuts recurrences by 50 per cent. But Anastrozole may cut recurrences by up to 80 per cent.
Most breast cancer tumors need estrogen to grow. Tamoxifen prevents estrogen from feeding tumors, but it has scary side effects, such as increased risk of uterine cancer. Anastrozole blocks estrogen production. But since the drug doesn’t stimulate the uterus, there’s no increase in uterine cancer risk. Side effects are minimal, but may include osteoporosis, which can be controlled with medication.
Based on research, the American society of Clinical Oncology now suggest that all post-menopausal women with this type of breast cancer be considered for aromatase inhibitors. So, take care of the women and take care of yourself. Live long and prosper.
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