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In a groundbreaking study, researchers at Northwestern University have unveiled exciting findings regarding a drug originally designed to alleviate menopause symptoms. Duavee, a medication produced by Pfizer, has demonstrated significant potential in reducing the risk of breast cancer, particularly for post-menopausal women.
This dual-purpose treatment could revolutionize how we approach both menopause and breast cancer prevention.
Understanding the research behind Duavee
The study involved 141 post-menopausal women diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), a non-invasive form of breast cancer affecting over 60,000 women in the U.S.
each year. Participants were divided into two groups: one received Duavee, while the other was given a placebo for a month prior to breast surgery. The results were promising, showing that Duavee significantly slowed the growth of cells in the milk ducts of women with DCIS, compared to those on the placebo.
How Duavee works
Duavee is a conjugated estrogen/bazedoxifene (CE/BZA) medication that combines estrogen with another agent to mitigate potential side effects. Dr. Swati Kulkarni, the lead investigator, emphasized that the key takeaway from the study is the drug’s ability to slow cell proliferation in estrogen receptor-positive DCIS cases.
This finding is particularly significant as it suggests a new avenue for breast cancer prevention that could benefit many women.
Quality of life considerations
Interestingly, the study also highlighted that the quality of life for participants taking Duavee did not differ significantly from those on the placebo.
However, those on Duavee reported fewer hot flashes, a common symptom of menopause. This is particularly noteworthy as it indicates that a medication aimed at improving menopausal symptoms could also serve a critical role in cancer prevention. Dr. Kulkarni expressed her excitement about the potential of Duavee, stating, “A medication designed to help women feel better during menopause may also reduce their risk of invasive breast cancer.”
The path forward for Duavee
While the findings are promising, researchers caution that more extensive studies are needed to confirm the drug’s effectiveness in preventing breast cancer. Dr. Sheheryar Kabraji, a breast medicine expert, noted that while the study is intriguing, it is still in its early stages. The focus on reducing a specific protein does not directly correlate with a decreased risk of cancer recurrence. However, the potential for fewer side effects compared to current breast cancer prevention medications makes Duavee a compelling option for further research.
Who stands to benefit?
Women at higher risk for breast cancer, particularly those experiencing menopausal symptoms, may find Duavee to be a beneficial option. As traditional hormone therapies are often not recommended for these women, Duavee could provide a much-needed alternative. Dr. Kulkarni emphasized that while the medication is not intended for treating invasive breast cancer, it can be considered for managing menopausal symptoms in women concerned about their breast cancer risk.
As research continues, the medical community remains hopeful that Duavee could pave the way for new strategies in breast cancer prevention, offering women a dual benefit of symptom relief and reduced cancer risk.
