How Hormone Therapy Works
Hormone therapy works in two main ways:
- Stopping the body from producing hormones
- Blocking the action of hormones on cancer cells
Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer
In breast cancer, hormone therapy is also called anti-estrogen therapy. The goal is to lower or block estrogen, a hormone that can fuel the growth of certain breast cancers.
- Surgical removal of ovaries (reduces estrogen production)
- Medications that block signals from the pituitary gland (preventing estrogen production)
Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer
In prostate cancer, hormone therapy is also called androgen-suppression therapy. The goal is to reduce levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which fuel prostate cancer cell growth.
- Surgical removal of one or both testicles (orchiectomy)
- Medications that block testosterone and DHT production
Advantages of Hormone Therapy
- Helps slow or stop the growth of hormone-dependent cancers
- Prevents cancer from spreading to other parts of the body
- Reduces the risk of cancer returning after surgery
- Can shrink tumors before surgery or radiation therapy
Disadvantages of Hormone Therapy
- Only effective for cancers that depend on hormones to grow
- Not a cure by itself – usually combined with other treatments
- Side effects may include:
- Hot flashes
- Headaches
- Weight gain
- Loss of sexual desire
- Bone thinning (osteoporosis) with long-term use
Final Thoughts
Hormone therapy is a powerful treatment option for breast and prostate cancers that rely on hormones to grow. While it cannot cure cancer alone, it plays a vital role in slowing disease progression, preventing recurrence, and improving survival rates. However, like all treatments, it has side effects, so patients should always discuss risks and benefits with their oncologist.
