Recent advances in adjuvant therapy for breast cancer

OBJECTIVES: To review recent studies that may influence the adjuvant treatment of patients with breast cancer. Studies reviewed evaluate the role of aromatase inhibitors, incorporation of taxanes into chemotherapy regimens, novel dosage schedules, and supportive care with epoetin alfa. DATA SOURCES: Published literature and clinical experience. CONCLUSION: Recent evidence suggests that aromatase inhibitors are more effective than tamoxifen as hormonal adjuvant therapy and that the addition of taxanes to adjuvant chemotherapy improves outcome. Supportive care is also an important component of therapy. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Knowledge of recent advances in adjuvant therapy for breast cancer will contribute to greater efficacy in patient care.