Predictors of vasomotor symptoms among breast cancer survivors

Purpose

Vasomotor symptoms (VMS) are a common side effect of breast cancer treatment, yet modifiable factors that may predict VMS among breast cancer survivors are unknown.

Methods

We estimated multivariable-adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals (aOR, 95% CI) for predictors of VMS among 3595 breast cancer survivors enrolled in the Life and Longevity after Cancer (LILAC) study, an ancillary study of the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI).

Results

VMS post-diagnosis were reported by 790 (22.0%) participants. Risk of VMS after diagnosis was positively associated with prior chemotherapy (aOR 1.80, 95% CI 1.21–2.68) and adjuvant hormone therapy (aOR 2.73, 95% CI 2.08–3.58), postmenopausal hormone therapy use (aOR 1.67, 95% CI 1.30–2.13), prior VMS (aOR 2.20, 95% CI 1.73–2.80), bilateral oophorectomy (aOR 1.77, 95% CI 1.37–2.27), and baseline antidepressant use (aOR 1.49, 1.06–2.09). VMS post-diagnosis were less likely among younger women (aOR 0.94, 95% CI 0.93–0.96), women younger at menopause (aOR 0.98, 95% CI 0.97–1.00), women with more time since diagnosis (aOR 0.92, 95% CI 0.90–0.94), and diabetics (aOR 0.45, 95% CI 0.21–0.95). Metabolic syndrome was not associated with post-diagnosis VMS (aOR 0.76, 95% CI 0.45–1.28).

Conclusions

VMS following breast cancer diagnosis was related to a number of modifiable factors, but was unrelated to metabolic syndrome.

Implications for Cancer Survivors

Identification of factors that predispose women to VMS following a breast cancer diagnosis may allow clinicians to recognize and address VMS in the subset of women who are most likely to experience such symptoms.