Endometrial cancer treatment may include a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and medication. While these treatments are necessary, they do carry a risk of long-term poor bone health and the onset of osteoporosis.
There are things you can do to stabilize and improve bone health and prevent bone fractures.
How does cancer treatment affect bone health?
Women are more likely to experience osteoporosis than men, and the risk of developing poor bone health increases after menopause as a result of reduced estrogen levels. In addition, endometrial cancer most often occurs after menopause, and its associated treatments impact long-term bone health.
Surgery for endometrial cancer can include the removal of the ovaries, causing a drop in estrogen.
Other factors can also affect bone health. These include:
- Certain chemotherapy drugs can contribute to poor bone density.
- Hormone therapies that block the production of estrogen.
- Radiation can cause bone loss, particularly near the radiation site.
- Steroids used to treat nausea can affect calcium absorption, reducing bone strength.
Learn more about endometrial cancer treatment and care
What are the signs of poor bone health?
It may take some time for poor bone health following cancer treatment to become apparent. It is a good idea to undergo regular DEXA bone density screening to monitor your bone health and be proactive with treatment options. Also, keep an eye on your Vitamin D levels through routine blood tests, as Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium.
Unexpected or frequent bone fractures are a clear sign that you may have poor or declining bone health.
Ways to support bone health following cancer treatment
While it is important to adhere to your cancer treatment to kill the cancer and reduce the likelihood of it returning, there is a risk of osteoporosis following cancer treatment. However, there are ways of lowering your risk and improving bone health.
Talk to your doctor about your medication and how it may be affecting your bone health. Ensure your bone density is being closely monitored if you are in perimenopause or menopause or have already experienced it.
A dietitian who specializes in working with cancer patients can help adapt your diet to reinforce bone strength. They may recommend:
- Eating a diet rich in calcium: foods such as dairy, leafy green vegetables
- Eating a diet rich in Vitamin D: foods such as orange juice, pasta and milk help in calcium absorption.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: being underweight or overweight can contribute to poor bone health.
A physical therapist can help by preparing a personalized plan, which may include:
- Building muscle and bone density through weight-bearing exercises.
- Adopting an active lifestyle to help maintain a healthy weight.
Other key health-related advice to support bone health includes not smoking and limiting alcohol.
Sign up here to get the latest news, perspectives, and information about EC sent directly to your inbox. Registration is free and only takes a minute.
