Prescription pattern of aromatase inhibitors for the adjuvant therapy of breast cancer in Germany -: Results of the second survey among gynaecologists and medical oncologists

Introduction: In sequence to our first survey in 2004 on antihormonal therapy with aromatase inhibitors (Als), we conducted a second survey on the prescription practice in 2005. Material and Methods: We distributed the anonymous questionnaires amongst the participants of the 2005 congresses of the German Society of Senology and German Society of Haematology and Oncology. Results: The surveys were mostly completed by gynaecologists (46%) and medical oncologists (46%). According to the responses given, over 31,000 breast cancer patients were treated in these institutions in 2004, over 18,000 of whom received Als. 37/30% of doctors prescribed Als for national/private health insurance patients depending on the known risks of tamoxifen treatment (> 50% of cases). Whilst only 6/10% of doctors prescribed Als for more than 50% of patients with either national/private health insurance in 2004, this figure reached 49% in 2005, independent of the type of medical insurance. Assuming unrestricted approval, 68/65% of doctors would treat over 50% of their patients with an Al. Conclusion: The rate of treatment with Als has increased dramatically. The previous gold standard, tamoxifen, was by and large replaced by Als in 2004/ 2005. We may assume that almost all receptor-positive breast cancer patients will receive an Al in the course of their adjuvant therapy in the very near future.