Game-changing Post-Menopausal Breast Cancer Prevention Drug
Breast cancer prevention post-menopause
Breast cancer remains a real health concern in the UK, with statistics showing a steady increase in the number of cases diagnosed every year. So, it is encouraging to hear about a ground-breaking development set to offer almost 300,000 post-menopausal women who are at moderate or high risk of developing breast cancer, a powerful tool in the fight against this disease. Starting in November 2023, these women will gain access to anastrozole, a risk-reducing drug, marking a pivotal step toward prevention rather than cure in the fight against this devastating disease.
UK breast cancer rates
Statistics from Cancer Research UK show close to 56,000 new breast cancer cases being diagnosed in the UK every year. Projections suggest this number could rise to approximately 70,000 by 2038-2040. These figures serve as a stark reminder that breast cancer is the most prevalent form of cancer in the UK, mailing up 15% of all new cancer cases and causing around 11,500 deaths annually. The need for effective prevention strategies remains high.
How can Anastrozole help reduce breast cancer risk in menopause?
Anastrozole, originally developed for breast cancer treatment, has been repurposed to be used as a preventive measure that can have a life-saving impact. It works by by blocking the action of an enzyme, 'aromatase' to restrict the amount of oestrogen made by the body
Those at an increased risk of breast cancer, especially post-menopausal women with a family history of the disease, will be able to take a 1mg anastrozole tablet daily for a five-year span. It does however, come with some possible side effects, including: weakness, hot flushes, joint pains, arthritis, skin rash, nausea, headache, osteoporosis, and depression.
Anastrozole's ‘Remarkable’ Potential
The head of NHS England has welcomed the licensing of anastrozole as a preventative medication, saying its potential could be "remarkable" in reducing the number of individuals who go on to develop breast cancer.
Clinical trials have shown that the drug can cut incidences of the disease in post-menopausal women at increased risk, by almost 50%. This breakthrough offers women a tangible and effective means to reduce their risk.
How many lives could be saved?
It is anticipated that around 25% of those eligible for the drug will take it. If this is the case, there is the potential to save around 2,000 lives each year - a promising step in the right direction. The journey towards fewer breast cancer diagnoses and improved survival rates begins with access to innovative preventive measures like this.
The importance of early detection of breast cancer
In addition to preventative drugs like anastrozole, early detection through regular breast self-examination, screenings and mammograms continues to play a vital role in improving breast cancer outcomes. Combining prevention and early detection efforts can significantly reduce the burden of this disease on individuals and the healthcare system.
The introduction of anastrozole as a risk-reducing drug is a significant milestone in the fight against breast cancer. With the potential to reduce the incidence of this disease by nearly 50% in post-menopausal women at increased risk, it offers hope to thousands of women with a family history of breast cancer. As the number of breast cancer cases in the UK continues to rise, this breakthrough couldn't have come at a more critical time. It empowers women to take control of their health and offers a glimpse of a future with fewer breast cancer diagnoses and, ultimately, fewer lives affected by this devastating disease.
November 2023
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