What common side effect must be monitored in patients using hormone therapy like Tamoxifen?

Monitoring for endometrial cancer risk is crucial for patients using hormone therapy such as Tamoxifen. This medication is often prescribed for estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, and while it acts as an antagonist in breast tissue, it can act as an estrogen agonist in the endometrium. Consequently, women taking Tamoxifen have an increased risk of developing endometrial cancers due to the stimulating effects on the uterine lining, which can lead to hyperplasia and subsequent malignancy.

Therefore, healthcare providers typically conduct regular gynecological evaluations and may recommend routine screenings or monitoring strategies to ensure early detection of any changes or symptoms indicating potential endometrial cancer. This aspect of patient management is integral to ensuring overall safety while using hormone therapies for cancer treatment.