Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer
What is Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer?
Hormone therapy is a type of cancer treatment that blocks the production or action of hormones that fuel the growth of cancer cells. It is also known as endocrine therapy. Hormone therapy is used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. The goal of hormone therapy is to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve the chances of long-term survival. Hormone therapy can be given before or after surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.
Types of Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer
There are different types of hormone therapy for breast cancer, including:
- Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs): These drugs block the estrogen receptors in breast cells, preventing estrogen from attaching to the cells. SERMs include tamoxifen and raloxifene.
- Aromatase inhibitors: These drugs block the enzyme aromatase, which is responsible for making estrogen in the body. Aromatase inhibitors include anastrozole, letrozole, and exemestane.
- Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists: These drugs lower the levels of estrogen in the body by blocking the production of hormones that stimulate the ovaries to produce estrogen. LHRH agonists include goserelin, leuprolide, and triptorelin.
How Hormone Therapy Works
Hormone therapy works by blocking the effects of estrogen and progesterone in breast cancer cells. Estrogen and progesterone are hormones that can stimulate the growth of breast cancer cells. Hormone therapy can reduce the amount of estrogen and progesterone in the body or block the receptors that these hormones attach to. By doing so, hormone therapy can slow down or stop the growth of breast cancer cells.
Benefits of Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy can help to:
- Reduce the risk of cancer recurrence
- Improve the chances of long-term survival
- Shrink the size of the tumor before surgery
- Reduce the risk of developing breast cancer in the opposite breast
Side Effects of Hormone Therapy
Like all cancer treatments, hormone therapy can cause side effects. The side effects of hormone therapy depend on the type of hormone therapy used, the dose, and the individual's overall health. Some common side effects of hormone therapy include:
- Hot flashes
- Sweating
- Vaginal dryness
- Loss of libido
- Joint pain
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
FAQs
Q: Is hormone therapy the only treatment option for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer?
A: No, there are other treatment options for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Your healthcare team will recommend the best treatment plan for you based on the stage of your cancer and your overall health.
Q: How long do I need to take hormone therapy?
A: The duration of hormone therapy depends on the individual's cancer, stage, and treatment plan. Some women may take hormone therapy for five years, while others may take it for up to ten years. Your healthcare team will discuss the duration of your hormone therapy with you.
Q: Can I still get pregnant while on hormone therapy?
A: Hormone therapy can lower the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body, which can affect fertility. It is important to discuss your fertility options with your healthcare team before starting hormone therapy.
Q: Does hormone therapy have any long-term effects?
A: Hormone therapy can increase the risk of osteoporosis, a condition where the bones become weak and brittle. It is important to discuss the long-term effects of hormone therapy with your healthcare team.
Conclusion
Hormone therapy is a type of cancer treatment that blocks the production or action of hormones that fuel the growth of cancer cells. It is used to treat hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. Hormone therapy can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve the chances of long-term survival. Like all cancer treatments, hormone therapy can cause side effects. It is important to discuss the benefits and risks of hormone therapy with your healthcare team.