Many men undergo androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) as part of their prostate cancer treatment. But even two years after ADT ends, patients may still struggle with low testosterone, according a recent report.
The term androgens refer to male hormones like testosterone. This hormone is important for men’s health, but it can also fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells. ADT reduces the amount of testosterone in a man’s body, cutting off the cancer’s power supply.
ADT is more common in men with intermediate- and high-risk prostate cancer as well as men whose cancer has spread beyond the prostate gland.
Decreasing testosterone in this way has its drawbacks, however. Low testosterone is linked to lower bone density, leaving men at higher risk for osteoporosis. Men with low testosterone are also more likely to develop diabetes and heart disease.
There are sexual side effects as well, including diminished libido, orgasm difficulties, and erectile dysfunction.
Researchers investigated this issue in a recent Journal of Sexual Medicine study. They collected data from 307 men who underwent ADT. The men’s average age was 65 years, and they had spent an average of 17 months on ADT.
The research team took note of the men’s testosterone levels at baseline (before they started ADT) and 24 months after the men finished ADT.
Total testosterone is measured in nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). For this study, a measurement above 300 ng/dL was considered normal. Castrate level was defined as a measurement less than 50 ng/dL.
The men’s average baseline testosterone was 379 ng/dL. Twenty-four months after ADT finished, 8% of the men were still at castrate level. For 76% of the men, testosterone levels had returned to normal, and 51% of the men saw their levels return to baseline.
Recovery to normal levels was less likely for men who had baseline levels below 400 ng/dL and those who had ADT for over six months. Recovery occurred more slowly for men over age 65 and those who had been on ADT for longer durations.
The study authors recommended that doctors talk to their prostate cancer patients about testosterone levels before ADT begins, noting that “it is still difficult to estimate individualized chances of recovery.”
Resources
American Cancer Society
“Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer”
(Last revised: July 18, 2018)
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/prostate-cancer/treating/hormone-therapy.html
The Journal of Sexual Medicine
Nascimento, Bruno MD, et al.
“Testosterone Recovery Profiles After Cessation of Androgen Deprivation Therapy for Prostate Cancer”
(Full-text. Published online: May 9, 2019)
https://www.jsm.jsexmed.org/article/S1743-6095(19)30735-0/fulltext
You may also be interested in...
Other Popular Articles
What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?
The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.
What Is the Average Penis Size?
If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.
What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?
Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.
What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?
Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.
Can Sex Reduce Menstrual Cramps?
The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.
Having sex while you experience menstrual cramps is healthy and can provide significant benefits. While it might not be the first activity that comes to mind when your PMS or period cramping begins, many people enjoy sex to reduce menstrual cramps, experience increased pleasure and benefit from other advantages. Learn more about having sex while menstrual cramps are happening and how it can help your body.
Can Sex Throw off Your Vaginal pH Balance?
The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.
Your vagina is a pretty powerful organ. It is a pathway for menstrual blood and babies. It also is a main player in sexual intercourse. You might hear about your vagina’s pH and worry that yours is at risk. Here’s what to know about vaginal pH, including the impacts sex could have.
