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Tamoxifen and raloxifene (Evista) lower risk for breast cancer in women at high risk. Now, a third drug — the aromatase inhibitor exemestane (Aromasin) — has entered the scene.
In a partially industry-funded study, researchers enrolled 4560 postmenopausal women who met at least one of these criteria:
Age, ≥60
5-year breast cancer risk, >1.66%
Prior intraepithelial neoplasia
Women were randomized to receive exemestane for as long as 5 years; all women underwent annual clinical breast examinations and mammography. During median follow-up of 3 years, invasive breast cancer was diagnosed in 11 exemestane recipients and 32 placebo recipients (annual incidence, 0.19% vs. 0.55%) — a significant difference. Hot flashes and joint pain were slightly more …