Patterns of Contraceptive Use in Early Breast Cancer
For young women with breast cancer (BC), contraceptive options are limited since estrogens are generally avoided due to the hormonal responsive of most tumors. However, little is known about how a BC diagnosis affects contraceptive choices. A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Associate explores how a BC diagnosis affects contraceptive choices and assesses factors associated with contraceptive use. Read more.

Safety of Systemic, Vaginal Estrogen in Early BC
Chemotherapy-induced menopause, natural menopause, and the antiestrogenic effects of aromatase inhibitors can contribute to the development of genitourinary symptoms (GS). GS—which include vaginal dryness, itchiness, burning, overactive bladder, and urinary incontinence—can adversely impact a woman’s quality of life. Estrogen therapy is very effective in managing GS, but questions remain regarding its safety in women diagnosed with early breast cancer (BC). Read more.

Antipsychotic Use May Increase Breast Cancer Risk
As dopamine antagonists, antipsychotics are associated with increased prolactin levels by inhibiting the binding of dopamine-to-dopamine D2 receptors. Some atypical antipsychotics, such as risperidone and paliperidone, are associated with increased prolactin levels. Elevated prolactin levels have been linked to an increased risk for the development of breast cancer. However, the role of antipsychotics in breast cancer development remains inconclusive. Read more.