What is the main benefit of using aromatase inhibitors in HR-positive breast cancer treatment?

The primary benefit of using aromatase inhibitors in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive (HR-positive) breast cancer is that they decrease estrogen levels in the body. HR-positive breast cancers utilize estrogen to promote their growth and proliferation. By inhibiting the aromatase enzyme, which is responsible for converting androgens to estrogen, these drugs effectively lower circulating estrogen levels. This reduction limits the amount of estrogen available to stimulate cancer cell growth, thus slowing the progression of the disease and improving treatment outcomes.

Aromatase inhibitors are particularly beneficial for postmenopausal women, as they typically do not rely on the ovaries for estrogen production anymore. Hence, by further diminishing estrogen levels through these inhibitors, the chances of cancer recurrence can also be significantly reduced. This mechanism of action is crucial for managing HR-positive breast cancers, making the use of aromatase inhibitors a standard part of treatment for this subgroup.