Bone Health after Breast Cancer Treatment
Bone health is important throughout life. Around the age of 35, we start to lose bone density as part of the natural ageing process. For some people, treatments such as hormone therapy or chemotherapy can affect bone health and increase the risk of osteopenia or osteoporosis, the conditions that affect the bones. This may depend on factors such as whether or not you have gone through the menopause when you started treatment.
What is osteoporosis?
Osteoporosis literally means ‘porous bones’. It is a thinning or weakening of the bones. As bones become thin and fragile, they are more prone to break (fracture) with little or no force. Treatments are available that can help try to keep bones strong.
Effects of breast cancer treatments.
Aromatase Inhibitors, including Anastrozole, Letrozole and Exemestane reduce the amount of oestrogen circulating around the body. This helps reduce the risk of breast cancer recurrence but can result in reducing bone density.
Chemotherapy may affect the function of the ovaries, causing an early menopause in some women. This results in less oestrogen in the body which can reduce bone density.
If you are prescribed an aromatase inhibitor, you will have a bone density scan (DXA) scan around the time you start the tablets. If your bone health has already been affected, you may be prescribed a calcium or vitamin D supplement. It may be necessary to prescribe you another drug called a Bisphosphonate (such as Alendronic acid) if your bones already have signs of osteoporosis. This drug will help to strengthen your bones but it is important that you read the information provided on potential side effects to be aware of.
Click here to see additional information on Bisphosphonates
General advice on maintaining good bone health:
• Exercise can help keep your bones strong. Walking and other forms of weight bearing exercise helps to stimulate growth and strength of the bones.
• Eat a balanced diet. It’s important to get enough calcium from your diet as calcium is vital for healthy bones. Include sources of calcium such as dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt in your diet.
• Smoking and drinking too much alcohol can have a damaging effect on bones.
• If you are prescribed medications, please take them as prescribed to help protect your bones.
Other Relevant Information and Advice
Physical Activity and Exercise
Disclaimer: On this website you will find advice to help you manage some of the more common but milder symptoms and side effects of breast cancer surgery. Please ONLY use this advice if you are currently participating in the ePainQ research project, otherwise you must follow the advice given to you by your medical team.
Clicking on the links in the left hand menu will take you to advice on looking after yourself during treatment. If after following the advice you don’t feel your symptoms are being successfully managed or relieved, or if you become more unwell, you should contact your hospital medical team immediately. This should be your Breast Care Nurse on 0113 2068623)