Targeted antiestrogens for the prevention of breast cancer

This commentary explores the recent experience with and the basis for the u se of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) to prevent breast canc er. Chemoprevention has been a goal For many years. As newer agents are unv eiled, they will continue to be tested against tamoxifen, the current stand ard for the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. Raloxifene holds the promise of treating osteoporosis with the beneficial side effect of breast cancer prevention. The Study of Tamoxifen and Raloxifene (STAR) trial and prior prevention studies will be discussed in an attempt understand the bri dge from the laboratory to the clinic.