Counting the costs of treatment: the reproductive and gynaecological consequences of adjuvant therapy in young women with breast cancer

Abstract
As the mortality rate from breast cancer decreases, the issues facing breast cancer survivors are becoming increasingly important. Survivors of all ages may face physical and psychosocial consequences of their diag­nosis and treatments. However, the long-term fertility and menopause-related side-effects of adjuvant therapy uniquely affect younger premenopausal breast cancer survivors. This article provides an evidence-based overview of the reproductive and gynaecological impact of breast cancer therapy for premenopausal women diagnosed with breast cancer. The physical and psychosocial implications of premature menopause are presented. Strategies for preserving fertility in selected patients are also discussed. Recent clinical trials strongly indicate that premenopausal women with oestrogen receptor positive tumours should receive endocrine therapy. The increased use of endocrine therapies in younger women raises important questions regarding patient information needs and treatment decision-making. (Intern Med J 2001; 31: 372−379)