Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer: Risks and Safety

Hormone therapy—also known as androgen deprivation therapy (ADT)—is a common and often necessary treatment for advanced or aggressive prostate cancer. It works by lowering levels of male hormones like testosterone that fuel the growth of cancer cells. While hormone therapy is effective at slowing or halting the disease, it’s important to understand the potential side effects and long-term health risks.

What Is Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer?

Hormone therapy can be administered in several ways:

• Injections that reduce testosterone production
• Oral medications that block hormones
• Surgical removal of the testicles (orchiectomy) to stop hormone production at the source

These approaches help shrink tumors, relieve symptoms, and extend survival in men with prostate cancer that has spread beyond the prostate gland.

Key Safety Concerns of Hormone Therapy

1. Heart and Blood Vessel Risks

Lower testosterone levels can affect heart health. Studies show that men on ADT may have an increased risk of:

• Heart attacks
• Strokes
• Blood clots

Men with a history of heart disease should be closely monitored during treatment.

2. Bone Loss and Fractures

Testosterone supports bone strength. Without it, men may experience:

• Faster bone density loss
• Higher risk of osteoporosis
• Increased risk of hip, spine, or wrist fractures

3. Metabolic Changes and Weight Gain

Hormone therapy can lead to:

• Weight gain, especially around the abdomen
• Higher cholesterol and blood sugar levels
• Increased risk of type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome

These issues raise long-term concerns about heart disease and overall health.

4. Sexual Side Effects

Testosterone is essential for sexual health. Common issues include:

• Erectile dysfunction (ED)
• Low libido
• Reduced sexual satisfaction

These side effects may persist even after treatment ends and can impact mental health and relationships.

5. Mood and Cognitive Changes

Some men report:

• Mood swings
• Anxiety or depression
• Brain fog or memory lapses

Though these effects vary from person to person, they should be taken seriously and addressed with professional support when needed.

How to Manage the Risks

Hormone therapy may be essential—but managing its risks is equally important. Here’s how patients and healthcare providers can work together:

• Regular Monitoring: Track heart health, blood sugar, cholesterol, and bone density with routine lab work and scans.
• Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Exercise regularly, eat a heart-healthy diet, quit smoking, and limit alcohol.
• Bone Support: Consider vitamin D, calcium supplements, and bone-strengthening medications like bisphosphonates.
• Mental Health Care: Speak with a therapist or join a support group. Emotional well-being is part of your healing.
• Open Communication: Keep your care team informed about any changes in symptoms, mood, or physical health.

Talk to Your Care Team at Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center

At Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center, we provide advanced, compassionate care tailored to each patient’s needs. Our facility offers:

• PET/CT Imaging (Biograph 6) for precise diagnosis and monitoring
• MRI-Guided Radiation (MRIdian system) to target tumors while protecting healthy tissue
• Elekta Versa HD technology for advanced motion tracking during radiation therapy
• Support from specialists in oncology, nutrition, mental health, and more

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you're undergoing hormone therapy—or considering it—get the expert guidance you deserve. Contact Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center to learn how we help men manage treatment side effects and maintain their overall health during prostate cancer care.