Tamoxifen's impact on the management of breast cancer: patient perspectives.

Tamoxifen citrate has been prescribed to millions of women with breast cancer and has been one of the most important advances in breast cancer treatment over the past 25 years. Because she is a female physician, the author's patients tend to be particularly open about their concerns regarding breast cancer and its treatment. Women accept tamoxifen as a treatment because of its demonstrated efficacy in breast cancer, extending survival and reducing contralateral breast cancer. They also recognize the potential benefits of secondary effects on lipids and bone. However, patients do have concerns regarding side effects and their impact on everyday life.