‘Medical castration’: Charity inundated with men distressed by side effects of androgen deprivation therapy
A medical form of castration, androgen deprivation therapy causes hypogonadism and is linked to depression.
A prostate cancer support service says its being overwhelmed with calls for help from men enduring the side effects of androgen deprivation therapy.
A mainstay treatment for advanced disease, androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), a medical form of castration, causes hypogonadism and can lead to erectile dysfunction and reduced libido, muscle mass, bone density and energy.
It is also strongly linked to depression.
“We know ADT is a lifesaver, but these men need support when starting treatment to cope effectively,” says Anne Savage, CEO of Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia.
