Hormone therapy
What it is and how it works
Some cancers use hormones as signals to grow. Hormone therapy can reduce hormone production or block a hormone’s action on cancer cells. The aim is to slow or stop the growth of cancers that depend on those signals.
When it is used
It is used for certain breast and prostate cancers. It may be given before or after the main treatment, or to control cancer that has spread. Tumour test results and the stage of cancer help the team choose the treatment.
How it is given and monitored
Tablets and injections are common. The length of treatment and follow-up tests depend on the cancer and the medicine used. The team can explain how response is assessed and when follow-up visits are planned.
What to discuss with your care team
Hot flushes, fatigue or changes in sexual function are possible. Some treatments can affect bone health. Ask about the monitoring you need and how symptoms that affect daily life can be managed.
