Article Details - Overview
Case Studies in Breast Cancer Vol. 6, No. 9
Release Date: December 17, 2008
Expiration Date: December 17, 2009
Publication Overview
Authors
Medical writer: Tristin Abair, PhD; Reviewed by: Debu Tripathy, MD
Overview and Purpose
For patients with hormone receptor–positive early-stage breast cancer, both selective estrogen receptor modulators and aromatase inhibitors (AIs) have dramatically improved disease outcome. However, significant risk of recurrence continues to persist long after completion of standard adjuvant endocrine therapy, suggesting that there is room for improvement. Recent recommendations suggest the inclusion of an AI in the adjuvant treatment regimen for postmenopausal patients, although the optimal timing and duration of this therapy is still controversial. Extended adjuvant AI therapy beyond the standard 5 years is under investigation in postmenopausal patients with hormone receptor–positive early-stage breast cancer and has yielded improvements in disease outcome compared to 5 years of therapy with tamoxifen. However, efficacy benefits must be weighed against potential toxicity costs for each individual patient. Several ongoing studies seek to address these issues; further research is needed to maximize long-term benefit in patients with hormone receptor–positive breast cancer.
The purpose of this activity is to update physicians about current data on the safety and efficacy of extending adjuvant endocrine therapy beyond 5 years in patients with hormone receptor–positive 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 risk of recurrence and natural history of hormone receptor–positive breast cancer
- Assess the efficacy and safety of extended adjuvant AI therapy in hormone receptor–positive early-stage breast cancer
- Identify ongoing clinical trials examining extended AI therapy in postmenopausal patients with hormone receptor–positive 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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