Endocrine (hormone) therapy
- davorkust
- May 22
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 2
Some tumors grow thanks to the action of hormones, and some types of breast cancer and prostate cancer are examples. This is the basis of the action of the so-called hormone therapy, for which the correct name is endocrine therapy. In other words, it would be correct to say anti-hormone therapy, because the goal of treatment is either to reduce the production of hormones or to reduce their effect on tumor cells. Hormone therapy can be used to treat the disease (slowing or stopping the growth of tumor cells, preventing the disease from returning) or to alleviate symptoms (for example, in patients who cannot be treated with other methods). It is most often used in combination with other types of treatment, and sometimes it needs to be taken for longer periods of time (several years). It is administered in the form of tablets or injections (into the muscle of the arm, upper leg and hip, or subcutaneously in the area of the arm, leg and abdomen). It can also be performed surgically, by removing the organs that produce hormones (ovaries or testicles).

As a rule, the side effects of hormone therapy are significantly less than when using chemotherapy, given that it is a type of targeted treatment. However, each person is different and it is impossible to predict how they will react to therapy. It has been noted that the side effects of hormone therapy are partially different in men and women. The most common side effects experienced by men treated for prostate cancer are hot flashes, decreased libido, weakened bones, diarrhea, nausea, gynecomastia (enlarged and painful breasts), and fatigue. Women receiving hormone therapy as part of breast cancer treatment most often experience hot flashes, changes in cycles, loss of libido, nausea, mood swings and fatigue.
Nutritional considerations. Hormone therapy for prostate cancer can cause weight gain. If you notice significant weight gain while taking hormone therapy, be sure to consult your doctor or nutritionist for advice.
Can I work while receiving hormone therapy? Since hormone therapy is either taken at home in pill form or given in a healthcare facility as standard injections, and because side effects are generally mild, many patients choose to work while receiving therapy. Hormone therapy does not significantly affect work ability in most patients.
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