Exemestane, a proven breast cancer treatment, shows strong potential for preventing the disease in high-risk women, according to a major clinical trial.
Researchers from the U.S. and Europe studied 4,560 healthy postmenopausal women to evaluate exemestane's ability to prevent breast cancer. Half received a placebo—an inactive pill identical in appearance to the real drug. In this group, 32 women developed breast cancer. The other half took exemestane, and only 11 developed the disease—a 65% risk reduction.
Side effects comparison
Earlier drugs like tamoxifen (an estrogen modulator) and raloxifene (used for breast cancer and osteoporosis) also reduced risk but carried serious drawbacks, including heart attacks and blood clots.
Promising profile
Exemestane stands out with few side effects, making it a safer preventive option. Ongoing research will determine optimal duration—experts estimate about five years post-menopause for maximum benefit.
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