Osteoporosis in women with breast cancer.

Osteoporosis is a disease that causes substantial morbidity and mortality for which preventive therapy is available. Women with breast cancer are at increased risk for osteoporosis for several reasons, including premature ovarian failure as a result of treatment, direct effects of chemotherapy, and effects of the breast cancer itself. As the incidence of breast cancer continues to increase and survival rates continue to improve, the importance of appropriate screening for and management of osteoporosis becomes more apparent. This article reviews the evidence supporting an increased risk for development of osteoporosis in women with breast cancer and summarizes strategies for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis in this population.