Hormone therapy

Candidates for hormone therapy are patients whose tumors are hormone-sensitive, often determined through tests for hormone receptors. For instance, breast cancers that are positive for estrogen or progesterone receptors are commonly treated with hormone therapy. Similarly, prostate cancer often relies on testosterone for growth, making hormone therapy a critical component of treatment for these patients.

Preparation for hormone therapy includes detailed consultations with the doctor, during which the results of hormone receptor tests and the treatment plan are discussed. The doctor will explain how the therapy will affect hormone levels in the body and which drugs or methods will be used, such as anti-hormonal drugs, aromatase inhibitors, or surgical removal of hormone sources (e.g., ovaries or testes).

Meeting with the doctor before starting hormone therapy involves discussing how the therapy will be administered, how long it will last, and what side effects the patient may experience. The doctor will also explain how the effects of the therapy will be monitored and what to do in case of unwanted side effects.

Results of hormone therapy can be highly effective in patients whose tumors are hormone-dependent. The therapy can significantly slow disease progression, reduce tumor size, or extend patient survival. However, some tumors may eventually become resistant to hormone therapy, requiring a change in treatment approach.

Precautions during hormone therapy include careful monitoring of side effects, which may include hot flashes, mood changes, fatigue, bone density loss, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Patients should regularly visit their doctor to monitor the effectiveness of the therapy and to respond quickly to any changes in health status. It is also important for patients to inform their doctor of any side effects they notice so that therapy can be adjusted as needed.