Final answer:
Females undergoing hormonal adjuvant treatments for cancer might be at higher risk for fractures due to changes in bone metabolism affected by these treatments, particularly involving estrogen. Hormone therapy can protect against bone loss but carries potential health risks, and controversy over its safety persists.
Step-by-step explanation:
Females may be at a higher risk of fractures (fx) after receiving hormonal adjuvant treatments for cancer due to the impact these treatments can have on bone metabolism. Estrogen, a key hormone in maintaining bone density, is sometimes lowered or blocked in these treatments. For example, after menopause, women experience a natural decline in estrogen production leading to an increased risk of osteoporosis, characterized by a rapid loss of bone density and a higher incidence of fractures. Hormone therapy (HT), which uses synthetic estrogens, can prevent bone loss but may have negative side effects, such as increased risks of stroke, heart attack, breast cancer, and other conditions.
The 2002 Women's Health Initiative study highlighted concerns about a higher risk of breast cancer with estrogen-only HT, leading to the premature termination of the study. Furthermore, hormone replacement therapy, if begun at an older age, may not provide cardiovascular benefits and thus may contribute to other health risks without the anticipated benefits. Therefore, a careful assessment of risks and benefits is essential for women undergoing such treatments, and prevention strategies like adequate calcium and vitamin D intake and weight-bearing exercises are recommended to help build bone mass and decrease fracture risks.