Evaluating optimal duration of androgen deprivation therapy in high risk prostate cancer

This study aimed to investigate the effect of the length of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) when used with radiotherapy in patients with prostate cancer. This study found that 18 months ADT led to similar overall survival and better quality of life as compared to 36 months in these patients. 

Locally advanced prostate cancer (LAPC) has spread to the tissues outside the prostate gland but did not spread to lymph nodes or other distant organs. It can be treated using radiotherapy (RT) and androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). ADT blocks the production of male hormones, such as testosterone, responsible for cancer growth. ADT is associated with important side effects which can influence the quality of life of these patients. It is unclear how long ADT should be taken for in patients with LAPC. 

This study included 630 patients with LAPC. They had RT with either 36 or 18 months of ADT. They were followed up for an average of 9.4 years. 

Overall survival five years after treatment was 91% for 36 months of treatment compared to 86% for 18 months of ADT. The 10-year overall survival for both groups was 62%. Side effects for ADT included hot flushes, erectile dysfunction, tiredness and enlargement of the breasts. The quality of life was better for men on 18 months ADT compared to 36 months. 

This study found that in patients with LAPC 18 month ADT led to similar overall survival and better quality of life as compared to 36 month ADT. 

The quality of life data is based on patient questionnaires. The information collected in this way is not always reliable. This study was funded by AstraZeneca, the manufacturer of an ADT drug.