Aromatase Inhibitors for Breast Cancer Prevention

Aromatase inhibitors (AIs) offer a new treatment option for breast cancer prevention without increased risks of venous thromboembolism and endometrial cancer. Compared to placebo, both exemestane and anastrozole significantly reduced the risk of not only invasive breast cancer but also non-invasive lesions. AIs are associated with unique side effects, particularly musculoskeletal symptoms, vasomotor symptoms, and bone loss. However, these side effects are manageable. There appeared to be no difference in the incidence of cardiovascular disease and the difference in quality of life is numerically small.