Drug used to prevent recurring breast cancer may increase risks - KCBD NewsChannel 11 Lubbock

8/25/09

Drug used to prevent recurring breast cancer may increase risks

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LUBBOCK, TX (KCBD) - A drug proven to prevent a recurrence of breast cancer may actually increase the risk of a rare form of the disease.  The drug is Tamoxifen and it's been applauded for some time, not just in treating breast cancer, but in preventing the cancer from returning. 

Now, a study of 1,100 breast cancer survivors indicate that even though Tamoxifen did prevent a recurrence of a common type of breast cancer, it may also increase the risk of a rare form of breast cancer called ER-negative, which usually shows up in the opposite breast.  The study at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center says women should not stop taking Tamoxifen, just be aware of the risk.

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