Improving Adherence to Endocrine Therapy in Women With HR-Positive Breast Cancer

Oncology (Williston Park). 2018 May 15;32(5):235-7, 249.

Abstract

Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) are the standard treatment for postmenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancers. One of the most common side effects of AIs is joint pain; it is also the most frequently cited reason for nonadherence and discontinuation before completion of the prescribed treatment course. Nonadherence and, in particular, discontinuation, can lead to increased rates of breast cancer mortality. The prevalence of AI-induced arthralgias is about 50%, and there are several interventions, including switching to a different AI, that can increase adherence. The healthcare professional plays a part in fostering adherence by communicating the side effects of AIs to patients before the initiation of treatment, as well as explaining the strategies for addressing these side effects, should they occur.

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / adverse effects
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Aromatase Inhibitors / adverse effects
  • Aromatase Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Arthralgia / chemically induced
  • Breast Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Breast Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Breast Neoplasms / pathology
  • Breast Neoplasms / psychology
  • Drug Substitution
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Medication Adherence*
  • Patient Education as Topic
  • Receptors, Estrogen / metabolism*
  • Risk Factors
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Aromatase Inhibitors
  • Receptors, Estrogen