Estrogen Blockers Could Reduce Breast Cancer Mortality, According To New Research

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What Are The Implications?

Women Showing Breast Cancer Awareness

Source: FatCamera / Getty

Do these findings mean that all women at risk for receptor-positive breast cancer should start taking estrogen blockers? While the medical community is hopeful about these new findings, most doctors assert that the decision should be made on a case-by-case basis. Other factors including family history and biopsy results will need to be taken into consideration.

Additionally, the concern surrounding side effects remains. Researchers have found that women can experience side effects from estrogen blockers ranging from mild to severe. Mild side effects can mean hot flashes, vaginal dryness and joint pain. Fortunately, these are typically reversible. However, serious side effects include an increased risk for endometrial cancer (11 more cases per every 1,000 high-risk women), as well as other cancers including uterine and thrombosis, and bone conditions like osteoporosis.

This is a major breakthrough for the medical community and women at risk for breast cancer. If you are at high risk for receptor-positive breast cancer, speak to your doctor to know if estrogen-blocking treatment is right for you.

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