Breast cancer and bones

Dear Amanda,

Thanks for getting in touch. Fosamax is indeed a bisphosphonate, which helps strengthens bones and prevent bone loss. It’s important to remember however that not all bisphosphonates are the same, and one woman may therefore take a different bisphosphonate to another.

If you are concerned about your bone density, you might want to have a chat to your oncologist about that, as they may be able to organise a bone density test for you called a DEXA scan, which tests for bone mineral density. Depending on you test results, your oncologist might recommend exercise, a calcium supplement or a bisphosphonate. Unfortunately there is currently no Medicare rebate for women having bone density testing as part of breast cancer surveillance and treatment. However there are some other circumstances under which bone density scans attract a Medicare rebate. You might like to talk to your oncologist about whether you may be eligible.

For more information about bone health you might like to check out the following:

1.    Bone Health for Life 
This website provides practical support to improve bone health to prevent and manage osteoporosis.

2.    BreastCancer.org  
This is an American website that has information on breast cancer and it’s treatments including the possible effects of treatment on bone health.

3.    Effects of Menopause on Long-term Health 
This part of the NBOCC website provides Australian information on bone health, and a list of suggestions on how you can reduce your risk of osteoporosis.

You may also want to check out our issue 49, 2009 edition of the Beacon which included articles on bone health, bone density testing and vitamin D.

Hope you find this info helpful.

Astrid