Bone Health (Issue 1)

Women undergoing therapy for breast cancer are at increased risk for loss of bone mineral density (BMD) and fractures because of the use of adjuvant estrogen-lowering therapies (ie, aromatase inhibitors).

Most women are aware that bone density frequently decreases with age and natural menopause, but many women do not know that breast cancer treatments can reduce bone density and increase the risk of fracture.

Bone-targeted agents may help to minimize complications associated with osseous metastases, such as skeletal-related events, but ongoing compliance and adherence to these therapies are important to ensure they provide the desired benefit.

Denise A. Yardley, MD, senior investigator, Sarah Cannon Research Institute, on the treatment of patients with breast cancer with bone health issues.

Cancer-induced bone disease (CIBD) is sometimes characterized by bone fragility; however, detection of CIBD can pose challenges for practitioners.

Bisphosphonates and denosumab are bone-modifying agents that prevent or delay cancer-induced bone disease and skeletal-related events by inhibiting bone resorption.

Virginia G. Kaklamani, MD, professor of medicine, University of Texas Health Sciences Center in San Antonio, discusses bone health in women with breast cancer.