Screening, prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer therapy-induced bone loss in patients with breast cancer.
OBJECTIVE
To identify protocols to screen, detect, prevent, and treat cancer therapy-induced bone loss resulting in osteoporosis in patients with breast cancer.


METHODS
Published books and articles.


RESULTS
Normal bone remodeling is affected by hormonal stimulation. Breast cancer therapies target hormones that promote cancer cell growth. Chemotherapy regimens and hormone ablation may cause ovarian failure, resulting in decreased hormone levels. A decrease in hormones, in estrogen- and progesterone-positive and -negative patients, introduces an environment for decreased bone remodeling, which may result in thinning bone and osteoporosis. The acceleration of bone loss leading to osteoporosis can result in higher fracture rates among breast cancer survivors.


CONCLUSIONS
With proper use of screening tools, patient education, and advice about lifestyle changes, all prior to cancer treatment, healthcare professionals may decrease or prevent bone loss in patients with breast cancer. Doing so minimizes healthcare costs and decreases morbidity and mortality rates in breast cancer survivors.


CONCLUSIONS
As more individuals diagnosed with breast cancer are surviving for extended periods of time, oncology nurses are providing long-term follow-up care. Part of the care should include proper screening and patient education for healthier recovery and prevention of further healthcare complications as a result of cancer treatment.
Limburg
Connie E
CE
San Diego Pacific Oncology and Hematology Association, Inc., Vista, CA, USA. celimburg@sbcglobal.net
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects*; D015519:Bone Density / Q000187:drug effects; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000451:nursing*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010024:Osteoporosis / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D012307:Risk Factors
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents