Breast Cancer/Osteoporosis/Heart issues? How to decide on which meds??

@rene1636, you’ve received great replies regarding osteoporosis and radiation. I’d like to address the heart issues.

Mayo Clinic offers a program to address heart problems associated with cancer treatment called cardio-oncology. The Cardio-Oncology Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/departments-centers/cardio-oncology-clinic/overview/ovc-20442193) evaluates people prior to cancer treatment and patients who have experienced side effects due their treatment. Other cancer centers may have a similar program.

You might also want to ask about Integrative Medicine too. There is an incredibly long list of natural substances that have been tested for their estrogen inhibiting qualities. Just scrolling through this journal article made my head spin:
– Natural Products as Aromatase Inhibitors https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3074486/

Anyone who is considering a non-synthetic aromatase inhibitor should talk to someone qualified in an Integrative Cancer Care specifically. Here's more information about integrative medicine and cancer care at Mayo for example:
– Integrative medicine https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/complementary-alternative-medicine/about/pac-20393581

Cancer care is a team effort and it’s hard to be the coach, referee as well as the quarterback when you’re also the patient.

Find a proton radiation center close to you. It is an amazing form
of radiation that releases all of its radiation at the targeted site. Had it for prostate and after mastectomy and 6 node removal. No damage to any organs, etc. Google proton radiation. It's amazing and safe. Good hunting!

Proton radiation is stronger than other radiation. Correct?

Thank you for this information! There was never a truer statement than what you said about being the coach, referee and the quarterback!!! Very well said! That’s exactly what it feels like while trying to figure out all the variables, doctors & treatments available to help me advocate for my healthcare. It’s exhausting, both mentally & physically. I really wish I was closer to a Mayo Clinic but unfortunately I’m in the Midwest. We do have Siteman Cancer Center locally & they have Cardio Oncologist’s on staff. My husband passed from cancer in 2015 & he received very good care at Siteman. At the time of my DCIS diagnosis I wasn’t thinking clearly or I would have gone there to begin with. Once I get the Oconotype for DCIS results & see the Cardiologist, I’m planning on going there if needed to see what’s suggested & probably continue my care. Part of my issue is that I don’t feel like I have a “team”. Currently, my Oncologist is deciding what she thinks I need. Each doctor feels like just a piece of the puzzle when not having the entire picture to work with so the pieces aren’t fitting. Thank you also for the information on Integrative Cancer Care! I’ve seen some posts about proven natural alternatives for estrogen suppression & I will definitely check into the information! I truly believe that the more educated we are, the better we can advocate for our healthcare.

It is a challenge when one develops multiple health issues. It is important to see the patient's total picture.
I have osteopenia/ osteoporosis and have been on medications for some 20+ years. I have been on Prolia for 7 years.
I was diagnosed with lung cancer two years ago and had 2 VAT surgeries, and recently a radiation treatment. Radiation impacts bone density. I had a bone density recently and the local provider suggested I lock in my results and go to Fosamax from Prolia. I asked my Primary Care Provider if he thought that was a good idea and he said he did not have the knowledge and recommended I see an Endocrinologist. I therefore consulted one at Mayo. I learned something very important. He recommended I continue on Prolia for another 5 years and then I could consider changing to a different drug. Prolia has bone specific antitumor effects. That is very significant for someone with cancer who fears spread to bones!
I am also now on Prednisone which impacts bone density significantly, so it is important to consider all the related effects of treatments.

It is a challenge when one develops multiple health issues. It is important to see the patient's total picture.
I have osteopenia/ osteoporosis and have been on medications for some 20+ years. I have been on Prolia for 7 years.
I was diagnosed with lung cancer two years ago and had 2 VAT surgeries, and recently a radiation treatment. Radiation impacts bone density. I had a bone density recently and the local provider suggested I lock in my results and go to Fosamax from Prolia. I asked my Primary Care Provider if he thought that was a good idea and he said he did not have the knowledge and recommended I see an Endocrinologist. I therefore consulted one at Mayo. I learned something very important. He recommended I continue on Prolia for another 5 years and then I could consider changing to a different drug. Prolia has bone specific antitumor effects. That is very significant for someone with cancer who fears spread to bones!
I am also now on Prednisone which impacts bone density significantly, so it is important to consider all the related effects of treatments.

I’ve asked for a hormone level test as well. I have other health issues that I’m working through as well. I was told it wasn’t needed. That’s their answer. What they mean is knowing the levels of estrogen doesn’t help their treatment recommendations because there hasn’t been research that checked patients hormone levels during their studies. I asked what is the minimum amount of estrogen needed for the other organs and systems ( bone, brain, heart) to work efficiently in the average woman’s body. They don’t know. That’s what I was told. My question why can’t they find out. I’m 73 years old. I’m taking Letrozole 12.5. But maybe my estrogen levels are low enough already as compared to someone larger, younger, etc. I’m not like others in a lot of ways. I didn’t have a period until 19 years old on my wedding night. If I’d not married, it may have been longer. So, I don’t think we’re getting enough individualized care. We need more answers to make the best choices for ourselves. So what’s wrong with me getting the hormone level testing through my doctor? Why do I have to feel like I’m imposing a ridiculous concern. I’m sure I’m not the only woman wanting this information!!!