# Preliminary Insights into Quality of Life and Dietary Intake in Patients with Breast Cancer on Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy

## TL;DR

This study compares the quality of life and diet of breast cancer patients on two hormone treatments, finding similar overall quality of life but different side effects and dietary patterns.

## Contribution

The study provides preliminary insights into the distinct side effects and dietary habits of breast cancer patients on aromatase inhibitors versus tamoxifen.

## Key findings

- Aromatase inhibitor users experienced more joint pain and reduced libido, while tamoxifen users reported weight gain and irritability.
- Both groups consumed similar macronutrients, but aromatase inhibitor users ate more sugary and high-calorie foods, while tamoxifen users consumed more omega-6 fats.
- Both groups had suboptimal intake of vitamin D, calcium, and selenium, suggesting a need for nutritional interventions.

## Abstract

This study looked at women with breast cancer who were taking hormone treatments, either aromatase inhibitors (AIs) or tamoxifen. These treatments can cause side effects that affect daily life. The researchers found that overall quality of life was similar in both groups, but the types of side effects were different. Women on AIs often had joint pain and low sex drive, while those on tamoxifen more often gained weight, felt irritable, and had hot flashes or other hormone-related symptoms. When it came to diet, both groups ate similarly, but AIs users tended to eat more sugary and high-calorie foods. Tamoxifen users ate more omega-6 fats. Many women in both groups were not obtaining enough important nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, and selenium. In short, while the treatments affected women differently, both groups could benefit from better nutrition to feel their best during therapy.

Background: Endocrine therapies are accompanied by side effects that significantly impact the quality of life (QoL) of women with breast cancer. Adequate diet is important for fulfilling nutritional requirements, preserving health, and supporting therapy in this vulnerable population. Methods: This preliminary study evaluated the QoL of life and dietary intake in 185 women with breast cancer on two therapies, aromatase inhibitors (AIs) and tamoxifen, using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—Endocrine Symptoms (FACT-ES), European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire (EORTC QLQ-C30), and Breast Cancer Specific Questionnaire (QLQ-BR23) and a 24 h dietary recall. A total of 185 women were included in the study and fulfilled the FACT-ES, of whom 73 fulfilled other two questionnaires and a 24 h recall. Results: No significant differences were found in the overall QoL between groups. Joint pain (95.3%) and reduced libido (84.7%) were most common with AIs, while tamoxifen users more frequently reported weight gain and irritability (93.0%, each), and vasomotor and gynecological symptoms. Macronutrient intake was similar, though AIs users consumed more energy-dense (p ≤ 0.001) and sugary foods (p = 0.034), while tamoxifen users had higher omega-6 PUFA intake. Both groups exhibited suboptimal intake of vitamin D, calcium, and selenium, and a higher phosphorus consumption relative to recommended daily values. Conclusions: Preliminary findings showed that QoL and dietary intake were comparable between patients with BC on AIs and tamoxifen treatment. Endocrine-related symptoms were more prevalent among tamoxifen users, whereas joint pain was most common in AIs users. Nutritional interventions may be warranted in both groups to ensure adequate intake of essential micronutrients in accordance with recommended dietary guidelines.