Breast cancer is one of the most frequently occurring cancers in women. Women with breast cancer also suffer from bone destruction problems like fractures and osteoporosis. Cancer treatment or surgery brings about significant changes in the body, finally resulting in bone loss.

Bone targeted therapies are not merely crucial for bone health, but also helps in preventing cancer recurrence and improves overall prognosis. In general, 70% of women with breast cancer take bisphosphonates or denosumab to avert treatment-related osteoporosis and skeletal-related events (SREs). Among bisphosphonates, zoledronic acid exhibits great treatment importance. Recent evidence has suggested the superiority of intravenous bisphosphonate administration over oral administration. The trials outcomes also suggested the superior safety profile of denosumab over zoledronic acid. 

As per the latest research data, a significant improvement in overall survival and prevention of cancer cells at all the significant sites has been noted with bone-targeted therapies. The enhanced bone turnover is both an aftereffect and a driving factor for the formation of bone lesions, tumor expansion and activation of disseminated tumor cells, leading to bone relapses.

The investigators have collected the latest evidence on the efficacy of bone-targeted therapies in treating advanced breast cancer. The primary focus is to study the effect of bone target therapies on bone health and anti-cancer activity. Current guideline recommendations, the pathogenesis of bone metastasis, mechanism of action and side effects related to the use of bone-targeted therapies have been detailed. Thorough research about bisphosphonates use and denosumab in initial stages of breast cancer during adjuvant treatment with aromatase inhibitors has also been carried out.