Osteoporosis and aromatase inhibitors: experience and future prospects

The aim of this study is to improve the assistance given to patients under treatment with aromatase inhibitors in order to prevent secondary osteoporosis through the planning of an awareness programme for the oncologist and offering a facilitated treatment path.

Thirty-nine postmenopausal women treated with aromatase inhibitors for breast cancer were selected. For each subject, the age at the beginning of the therapy, the type of aromatase inhibitors and the age at the performance of the bone densitometry was registered. In addition, the use of osteoporosis medication and supplementation of calcium and vitamin D were evaluated. Participants were required to answer a questionnaire consisting of closed questions relating to booking procedures of the bone densitometry and about their own knowledge of osteoporosis related to the use of aromatase inhibitors.

Although there is evidence of negative impact of the aromatase inhibitors on bone, our data still show a poor application of the recommendations in order to prevent osteoporosis related to the administration of these drugs. Our suggestion is a more active implementation of the guidelines, also by means of a greater collaboration between the oncologist and the specialist in osteoporosis, and the offer of a diagnostic and therapeutic pathway.