How does hormone therapy help treat advanced prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer cells need androgens like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone to grow. Hormone therapy stops prostate cancer cells from using these androgens, which can shrink tumors or slow their growth. This treatment is used for all stages of prostate cancer, especially when the cancer has spread to other parts of the body like lymph nodes, bones, or lungs. While hormone therapy doesn't cure prostate cancer on its own, it helps control the cancer and ease its symptoms, improving quality of life and extending lifespan. There are various types of hormone therapy, including androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), androgen receptor blockers, and androgen synthesis inhibitors. Each type has different side effects, and doctors will create the best treatment plan based on your cancer stage, age, and health. Working closely with your treatment team can help you manage side effects and monitor treatment effectiveness.