ANN ARBOR, Mich., Oct. 3 (UPI) -- Chemotherapy drugs and estrogen-blocking hormone treatments to treat breast cancer may increase the risk of osteoporosis, says a U.S. researcher.
Researchers are finding that some drugs used to treat breast cancer may have an effect on bone mineral density -- potentially increasing the risk of bone loss in these women.
"Osteoporosis is a common problem. Women with breast cancer may be particularly at risk. This is because certain treatments for breast cancer may promote bone loss," said study leader Dr. Catherine Van Poznak, a breast oncologist at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center.
"These women should pay attention to nutrition and exercise and should consult with their physician."
It's not known how chemotherapy works against bone health -- it could be that because chemotherapy affects cells that divide quickly, it might alter bone mass, says Van Poznak.
Another class of drugs, called aromatase inhibitors, block the production of estrogen, making them an effective treatment for certain types of breast cancer. Lowering estrogen levels is beneficial in fighting breast cancer that is fueled by hormones, but it is harmful to bone health since estrogen helps bones stay strong, according to Van Poznak.
