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Four out of five women at high risk of breast cancer do not want to take tamoxifen to prevent the disease because of side-effects

Women surveyed said they feared the long-term effects or unpleasant symptoms of tamoxifen which could benefit about 500,000 in the UK

FOUR out of five women at high risk of breast cancer do not want to take a pill which prevents the disease, a survey found.

They said they feared the long-term effects or unpleasant symptoms of tamoxifen, or did not want to take medication while feeling well.

Four out of five women at high risk of breast cancer do not want to take a pill that prevents the disease
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Four out of five women at high risk of breast cancer do not want to take a pill that prevents the diseaseCredit: PA:Press Association

Experts estimate the 6p-a-day drug could benefit about 500,000 women in the UK.

Leeds University questioned more than 400 high-risk women. Only one in five felt strongly that they needed to take it.

Lead researcher Dr Samuel Smith said: “Some beliefs were very negative. This appears to be putting some women off tamoxifen, despite its proven ability to help prevent breast cancer.”

The study is published in the journal Clinical Breast Cancer.

Experts estimate the 6p-a-day drug could benefit about 500,000 women in the UK
2
Experts estimate the 6p-a-day drug could benefit about 500,000 women in the UKCredit: Alamy

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Tamoxifen works by blocking hormone oestrogen. But potential side-effects include headaches, nausea and hot flushes.

A poll found only a quarter of GPs were aware of NHS guidelines saying higher-risk patients should be offered tamoxifen.

The new research was funded by Cancer Research UK.
Dr Julie Sharp, from the charity, said: “It’s understandable that women considering taking a new medicine might have some concerns and that for some, it won’t be the right option.
“There are some potential side effects with tamoxifen, and other medications that can help prevent cancer, but it’s vital that women have all the information so they can make the best choice for them.”
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