Expert working group outlines guidelines, treatment options and care pathways to help prevent osteoporosis and fractures in cancer patients

Cancer is a health burden of increasing importance which affects close to 13 million people globally. Bone is often affected in these patients, frequently because of bone metastases, or as a result of anti-cancer therapies which can contribute to bone loss and fragility.

A new review published by an International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF) Committee of Scientific Advisors Working Group reviews the epidemiology and pathophysiology of cancer-associated bone disease and provides information about fracture prevention in cancer patients. The review summarises the pertinent recommendations of leading societies, providing guidance for clinical decision making and information on evidence-based pathways to prevent skeletal-related events and bone loss.

Cancer-induced bone disease can result from the primary disease itself, either due to circulating bone resorbing substances, or from metastasis to bone such as commonly occurs with breast, lung and prostate cancer. As well, cancer therapy itself can cause bone loss and fractures