Prostate cancer therapy increases risk of fatal heart attack

06 May 2009

ADT (androgen deprivation therapy), which lowers testosterone levels in men with prostate cancer, increases the risk of a fatal heart attack.

The therapy also raises the chances of fractures, gum and teeth disease, and mood swings.

Patients given ADT were up to 17 per cent more likely to suffer a fatal heart problem than those who were not receiving the therapy. There was also a 23 per cent increased risk of bone fractures after ADT.

The latest findings add to earlier studies that discovered ADT also increases the risk of diabetes.

(Source: Cancer, April 27, 2009; doi: 10.1002/cncr.24283).

Related WDDTY Content

Drugs for prostate cancer

Hot flushes, loss of libido, weight gain - sound familiar? For our female readers who are currently in, or have already gone through, menopause, the a...

Prostate Cancer: Therapy may spread the disease

A standard treatment for prostate cancer may spread the disease to other parts of the body, a new study has suggested.

Inhalers: They dramatically increase the risk of fatal heart attack

Inhalers for lung problems such as emphysema and bronchitis can dramatically increase the risk of heart attack and death, a new study has found.

Prostate cancer

The most common cancer in elderly men, prostate cancer depends on male hormones called androgens, particularly testosterone.

Prostate Cancer

The most common cancer in elderly men, prostate cancer depends on male hormones called androgens, particularly testosterone. The usual management of e...

Bipolar: The age of your father may play a part in mood swings

The age of your father when you were born may be a factor in determining whether you will suffer from bipolar disorder, or severe mood swings.