In a nutshell
The authors determined the effect of hormone therapy on hot flash interference in prostate cancer patients.
Some background
Hormone therapy is a common treatment used in prostate cancer. It involves targeting the male sex hormones active in prostate cancer, such as testosterone. However, side effects to hormone therapy can be distressing. Up to 80% of men experience hot flashes (sudden feeling of feverish heat). In some cases hot flashes can persist for years after hormone therapy is discontinued.
Further studies are required to identify risk factors for hot flashes in patients receiving hormone therapy.
Methods & findings
The aim of this study was to determine the risk of hot flashes in patients treated with hormone therapy.
229 patients were included in this study. Patients were divided into 3 groups. Group 1 (60 prostate cancer patients) received hormone therapy. Group 2 (83 prostate cancer patients – control group) did not receive hormone therapy. All patients in group 2 had surgery to remove prostate glands. Group 3 (86 patients) did not have cancer and was used as an additional control group.
Patients in group 1 showed higher levels of hot flashes at 6 months and 12 months compared to the control groups. Patients in group 1 experienced hot flashes that worsened with time while the control groups did not experience significant changes. Patients who were younger and who had low body mass index (BMI- body fat based on height and weight) experienced worse hot flashes compared to older men with higher BMIs.
Mutations (permanent changes) in genes involved in blood vessel formation, immune function, heart function and nerve function were associated with greater increases in hot flashes.
The bottom line
The authors concluded that younger prostate cancer patients with low BMI and specific mutations were more likely to experience greater increases in hot flashes than other prostate cancer patients on hormone therapy.
What’s next?
If you are considering hormone therapy and have concerns regarding side effects, please consult your doctor.
Published By :
Journal of Urology
Date :
Mar 16, 2015
