Final answer:
A drug that inhibits the enzyme aromatase would prevent the synthesis of estrogen, possibly reduce the risk of certain types of breast cancer, bring on menopausal symptoms, and increase the risk of osteoporosis due to lowered estrogen levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
A drug that blocked the enzyme aromatase would have several effects on a patient. Aromatase is responsible for converting androgens like testosterone into estrogens, such as estradiol. Therefore, by inhibiting this enzyme, the following outcomes are expected:
B) Prevent the synthesis of estrogen, which could lead to reduced estrogen levels.
E) Consequentially, this could lead to a combination of effects, such as:
A) Reducing the risk of breast cancer, since some breast cancers are estrogen-receptor positive and grow in response to the hormone.
D) Bringing on symptoms of menopause, since lower estrogen levels can lead to these symptoms.
C) Increasing the risk of osteoporosis, as estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density.