Adherence to Aromatase Inhibitor Therapy in Breast Cancer: Insights From a Multicenter Italian Study.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Clinical Medicine

Background:

• Adjuvant endocrine therapy (ET), particularly aromatase inhibitors (AI), is vital for estrogen-receptor positive breast cancer (BC) patients, significantly reducing recurrence and mortality.
• Poor adherence to AI therapy remains a significant challenge in BC management.
• Identifying factors influencing AI treatment adherence is essential for effective physician support and improved patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess adherence to AI therapy in a large cohort of BC patients.
• To identify factors influencing AI treatment adherence.
• To evaluate the occurrence and management of adverse events (AEs) associated with AI therapy.

Main Methods:

• A prospective/retrospective multicentric study involving 903 adult BC women undergoing adjuvant AI treatment.
• Data collected via questionnaire after at least 12 months of therapy.
• Primary endpoint: AI adherence; Secondary endpoints: AEs and their management.

Main Results:

• 26.9% of patients reported inconsistent AI intake times; adherence was not affected by age or other medications.
• Musculoskeletal symptoms (86.2%), hot flashes (74.5%), and tiredness (74.4%) were the most common AEs.
• Adverse events drove nonadherence in only 19.6% of patients, with varied and often generic management strategies.

Conclusions:

• Oncologists are pivotal in enhancing therapeutic adherence and clinical outcomes for BC patients on AI therapy.
• Open dialogue between patients and oncologists, alongside multidisciplinary collaboration, can improve treatment adherence and awareness.
• Strategies to manage AEs and support adherence are critical for long-term BC management.