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Keeping Your Bones Healthy After Breast Cancer

Keeping healthy bones after breast cancer

Breast cancer treatment can affect the health of your bones. Hormonal changes and menopause put some women at increased risk for losing bone tissue because of decreased estrogen levels.

Bone Loss from Breast Cancer Treatment

You should be aware of two bone loss conditions:

  • Osteopenia means you have less bone density or bone mass than normal.
  • This can lead to osteoporosis, where the decrease in bone mass and density makes bones fragile and easier to break.

Talk to your doctor about taking a bone-density test (often called a DEXA scan). You can find out your risk for bone conditions and take action to stay healthy.

Doctors may use a class of drugs called bisphosphonates to treat osteoporosis. These drugs can also help with bone issues related to cancer. They can:

  • Treat hypocalcaemia (abnormally low calcium levels) and other, related cancer symptoms.
  • Reduce metastasis to the bones.
  • When cancer has spread to the bones: prevent fractures, improve healing and reduce pain.

Note, as with any drug, bisphosphonates have side effects. Talk with your healthcare team and ask questions to decide what’s best for you and your bones.

Taking Care of Your Bones

To support your bone health:

  • Get the recommended 1,200 milligrams of calcium a day through supplements and foods like low-fat dairy products, leafy green vegetables and calcium fortified cereal and juice.
  • Consult your oncology team to determine if Vitamin D supplements are needed and at what dosage.
  • Eat a balanced diet.
  • Stay active, especially through weight bearing and strengthening exercises.
  • Quit smoking, or don’t start.
  • Limit alcohol intake.

Related Topics

Chemo Brain

Chemo Brain

Many women report what they call "chemo brain" as a side effect of chemotherapy. It can include forgetfulness and feeling foggy, and it feels frustrating. Read some tips for making your brain clearer and more alert.
Early Menopause

Early Menopause

Most young women don't expect to go into menopause at this stage in their lives. The side effects can be challenging, but there are ways to alleviate the symptoms.

Fatigue

Breast cancer treatment can cause fatigue in both the long and short-term. You don't need to accept it as par for the course, though. There are things you can do to feel more energized and healthy.
Lymphydema

Lymphedema

Lymphedema—the buildup of fluid in soft body tissues—is a common side effect of breast surgery and/or radiation. Know how to recognize it, work to prevent it, or take action to lessen its discomfort by seeking professional help and making small changes on your own.
Pain

Pain

Certain breast cancer treatments and surgeries may result in pain. While pain is often part of the healing process, there are ways to manage your discomfort so you can lead an active and full life.

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