{Reference Type}: Meta-Analysis
{Title}: [Effects of extended aromatase inhibitors in women with hormone-dependent breast cancer who have already received five years of adjuvant hormone therapy: A systematic review and meta-analysis].
{Author}: Trenou KC;Mésidor M;Diorio C;Eslami A;Talbot D;
{Journal}: Bull Cancer
{Volume}: 111
{Issue}: 4
{Year}: 2024 Apr 6
{Factor}: 1.318
{DOI}: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2023.12.016
{Abstract}: BACKGROUND: Evaluating the benefits and risks of prolonged hormonal treatment with aromatase inhibitors (AIs) for treating hormone-dependent breast cancer.
METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted. Studies reporting on randomized clinical trials concerning prolongating hormonal therapy with AIs as compared to a placebo or no prolongation, after an initial five years of hormonal therapy, were eligible.
RESULTS: Seven clinical trials were included. Prolonged AI therapy was associated with a statistically significant improvement in disease-free survival (RR=0.70, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.80). A statistically significant increase was observed for osteoporosis (RR=1.17, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.33), hot flushes/flashes (RR=1.27, 95% CI 1.08 to 1.49), myalgia (RR=1.23, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.39), fractures (RR=1.26, 95% CI 1.09 to 1.45) and arthralgia (RR=1.17, 95% CI 1.10 to 1.25). However, no statistically significant association was observed between prolonged AI therapy and overall survival, cardiovascular events, and bone pain.
CONCLUSIONS: Prolonged AI therapy has significant benefits in terms of disease-free survival in women with hormone-dependent breast cancer. However, adverse effects and a lack of evidence for a benefit on overall survival must be considered in the decision-making process regarding adjuvant hormone therapy extension.