Some cancers grow by utilizing hormones present in the body. Hormone therapy is a cancer treatment that alters the production of specific hormones, thereby inhibiting cancer growth. This treatment is commonly used for hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer.
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What is Hormone Therapy for Cancer?
Hormones are chemical substances in the body that regulate various functions, including cell growth and development. Certain cancers can develop with the help of specific hormones in the body.
Hormone therapy is a cancer treatment that disrupts hormone activity in the body, either by reducing or blocking them, to minimize and prevent cancer cells from growing.
Types of Cancer Treated with Hormone Therapy
The most common types of cancer treated with hormone therapy are breast cancer and prostate cancer, as they tend to grow using hormones in the body.
1. Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is highly sensitive to the hormone estrogen. Individuals with high estrogen levels have an increased risk of developing breast cancer. To manage this, doctors may use various medications to reduce hormone production or block estrogen from fueling cancer cell growth.
Hormone Therapy Medications for Breast Cancer:
- Aromatase Inhibitors: Reduce estrogen production, especially for postmenopausal women.
- Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Prevent estrogen from binding to cancer cells, thereby slowing down their division.
- Estrogen Receptor Downregulators (ERDs): Block estrogen receptors, making it difficult for the hormone to bind to cancer cells.
Side Effects:
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Weight gain
- Breast swelling
- Hot flashes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of libido
2. Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is highly sensitive to the hormone testosterone. Doctors aim to reduce testosterone levels by prescribing specific treatments such as:
- Anti-Androgens: Block the effects of testosterone on prostate cancer cells.
- LHRH Agonists and Antagonists: Lower testosterone production from the testes.
- Orchiectomy: A surgical procedure to remove the testes, drastically reducing testosterone levels.
Side Effects:
- Loss of libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Osteoporosis
- Weight gain
Besides breast and prostate cancer, hormone therapy is also used for ovarian and endometrial cancers, both of which are sensitive to female hormones.
Benefits of Hormone Therapy for Cancer
1. Inhibits Cancer Growth
Slows or stops cancer progression by reducing or blocking hormones needed for cancer growth.
2. Reduces Tumor Size
In some cases, hormone therapy can shrink tumors before surgery or radiation therapy.
3. Controls Symptoms
Helps manage cancer symptoms that have spread to other parts of the body.
4. Extends Life Expectancy
Improves survival rates for patients with hormone-sensitive cancers.
How is Hormone Therapy Administered?
1. Oral Medication
Hormones are given in pill or capsule form, taken daily.
2. Injection
Hormones or hormone-blocking drugs are injected into the body periodically, such as monthly or every few months.
Hormone therapy is an effective treatment for various hormone-sensitive cancers. While it can slow cancer growth and control symptoms, it may also cause side effects.
Therefore, it is essential for patients to discuss the benefits and risks of hormone therapy with their doctor and undergo regular monitoring during treatment.
Visit the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Mandaya Royal Hospital. With experienced specialists and cutting-edge medical technology, we provide the best care from consultation to achieving optimal health.
Book an Appointment via Whatsapp Chat or our Care Doctor app available on Google Play and the App Store. You can also track queue numbers and access complete health information through the app.
