A new study has found that breast cancer treatments may limit the effectiveness of weight loss medications. The study, which was presented at the Endocrine Society's annual meeting in Chicago, Illinois, looked at the data of 99 patients who were taking weight loss medications. Of these patients, 63 had a history of breast cancer and were taking aromatase inhibitors, while 36 did not have a history of breast cancer and were not taking aromatase inhibitors.
The study found that the women with a history of breast cancer who were taking aromatase inhibitors lost significantly less weight than the women without a history of breast cancer who were not taking aromatase inhibitors. At 3 months, the women with a history of breast cancer lost an average of 3.7% of their body weight, while the women without a history of breast cancer lost an average of 5.6% of their body weight. At 6 months, the women with a history of breast cancer lost an average of 3.9% of their body weight, while the women without a history of breast cancer lost an average of 9.5% of their body weight. At 12 months, the women with a history of breast cancer lost an average of 5.2% of their body weight, while the women without a history of breast cancer lost an average of 10.5% of their body weight.
The researchers believe that the aromatase inhibitors may be interfering with the body's ability to lose weight. Aromatase inhibitors are a type of hormone therapy that is used to treat or prevent the recurrence of certain forms of breast cancer. They work by blocking the production of estrogen, which is a hormone that can promote the growth of breast cancer cells. However, estrogen also plays a role in regulating metabolism, and blocking its production may lead to weight gain.
The study's findings suggest that women with a history of breast cancer who are taking aromatase inhibitors may need to be more vigilant about their weight management. They may need to make lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, to help them lose weight. They may also need to talk to their doctor about other weight loss options, such as surgery or other medications.
The study's findings are important because they highlight the need for more research into the effects of breast cancer treatments on weight loss. This research could help to develop more effective weight loss strategies for women with a history of breast cancer.
Here are some additional details about the study:
- The study was conducted by researchers at the University of California, San Francisco.
- The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health.
- The study's findings have been published in the journal Cancer.
The study's findings are a reminder that breast cancer treatment can have a significant impact on a woman's overall health. Women with a history of breast cancer should talk to their doctor about the potential side effects of their treatment, including weight gain. They should also work with their doctor to develop a personalized weight management plan.