Article Details - Overview
Case Studies in Breast Cancer Vol. 6, No. 8
Release Date: December 11, 2008
Expiration Date: December 11, 2009
Publication Overview
Author
Adam Brufsky, MD, PhD
Overview and Purpose
For patients with breast cancer, bone complications present a frequent clinical challenge. Bone metastases, which are commonly seen in patients with breast cancer, can lead to bone pain and morbidity. Additionally, many therapies used in treating patients with early-stage breast cancer can have a deleterious effect on bone density, leading to increased risk of fracture. The recent increase in aromatase inhibitor (AI) therapy, which can decrease bone mineral density and increase fracture rates, requires that physicians examine therapeutic options for the maintenance and restoration of bone health in patients receiving AI therapy. Several bone-targeted agents are under investigation for the prevention of bone loss, including bisphosphonates and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand inhibitors. The optimal timing and duration of bisphosphonate and novel bonetargeted agent therapy and the role of these agents in the early-stage setting are areas of debate.
The purpose of this activity is to update physicians on clinical data concerning the safety and efficacy of bone-targeted agents for the prevention of bone loss in patients undergoing adjuvant endocrine therapy for early-stage breast cancer.
Target Audience
This activity is intended for medical oncologists involved in the care of patients with breast cancer. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Discuss the current recommendations for the prevention and treatment of therapy-induced bone loss in patients with breast cancer
- Evaluate the efficacy of bisphosphonates and novel bone-targeted agents in the prevention of treatment-induced bone loss in patients with early-stage breast cancer
- Assess the utility of bisphosphonates for the prevention of metastases in patients with early-stage breast cancer
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Complete the Pretest.
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the CME test.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After successful completion of the CME test and evaluation, you will receive your certificate of credit online.
CME credit will be granted for only 1 form of participation, either online or via the printed publication.
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