WHAT DOES ANDROGEN DEPRIVATION THERAPY (ADT) DO?

Prostate cancer develops when cells of the prostate show uncontrolled growth. The growth and function of prostate cells can be fueled by testosterone, a male sex hormone that is made in the testicles. High levels of testosterone may help fuel prostate cell growth. Androgen deprivation therapy is used to lower levels of hormones, including testosterone.

ARE THERE SIDE EFFECTS OF ADT?

Each patient may experience different side effects of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Men undergoing ADT have reported side effects, including hot flashes, loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass and strength, fatigue, depression, and osteoporosis. Talk to your doctor about how ADT may affect you.

BESIDES TAKING MEDICATION, CAN I LOWER MY RISK OF THE CANCER PROGRESSING OR COMING BACK?

Unfortunately, for most cancers, there is no solid evidence that shows lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of cancer progression or recurrence. However, recent research suggests that men who exercise regularly after treatment may live longer than those who do not. Other research suggests that men who smoke are more likely to have their prostate cancer recur than men who don’t smoke.1 Adopting other healthy behaviors such as eating well and managing a healthy weight might also help. These types of changes can have positive effects on your health beyond your prostate cancer and may help you to live longer.

A BRIEF OVERVIEW OF YOUR ADVANCED PROSTATE CANCER (APC) DIAGNOSIS

WHAT DOES A DIAGNOSIS OF APC MEAN?

A diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer (APC) can mean a lot of different things, ranging from your PSA level to your Gleason score, to the size and location of your tumor. Your doctor will explain the details of this diagnosis as it relates to you.2

ADT IS A COMMON TREATMENT FOR APC

Testosterone, a male sex hormone found in the testicles, makes cells grow in the prostate. In patients with prostate cancer, testosterone may also fuel tumor growth.
The goal of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is to reduce testosterone levels in your body, thus taking fuel away from the cancer.3

DIFFERENT ADTs CAN WORK IN DIFFERENT WAYS

There are different types of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), and some can cause an increase in testosterone during the first week of treatment. Patients taking these kinds of ADT may experience worsening of symptoms or onset of new symptoms during the first few weeks of treatment. These symptoms may include bone pain, blockage of the urinary tract that can reduce urine flow out of the body, and compression of the spinal cord.3

“Nearly 242,000 men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year, and each and every one of them will have to find a strong, knowledgeable team of physicians, nurses, and other healthcare providers to help guide him through the process at each step of the way.”1