Cancer treatment
Hormone Therapy
Hormone therapy for cancer lowers or blocks hormones that some cancers, such as many breast and prostate cancers, need to grow.
Quick answer
Hormone Therapy: what it is, why it's done and what happens
Cancer hormone therapy uses medicines (or occasionally surgery) to reduce hormone levels or stop hormones acting on cancer cells, slowing or stopping the growth of hormone-sensitive cancers.
- Why it is done: It is used mainly for hormone-sensitive breast and prostate cancers, to shrink tumours, reduce the risk of recurrence after other treatment, or control advanced cancer, often over several years.
- What happens: It is usually taken as tablets or given by injection, sometimes for years.
What it is
Cancer hormone therapy uses medicines (or occasionally surgery) to reduce hormone levels or stop hormones acting on cancer cells, slowing or stopping the growth of hormone-sensitive cancers.
Why it is done
It is used mainly for hormone-sensitive breast and prostate cancers, to shrink tumours, reduce the risk of recurrence after other treatment, or control advanced cancer, often over several years.
What happens
It is usually taken as tablets or given by injection, sometimes for years. The type depends on the cancer and, for breast cancer, whether you have been through the menopause.
Recovery
Treatment fits around normal life, with regular reviews. Because it changes hormone levels, side effects such as hot flushes, tiredness or bone changes are managed over the course of treatment.
Good to know
Risks and things to consider
Side effects reflect lowered hormones — for example hot flushes, mood changes, reduced sex drive, and long-term effects on bones. It works only for hormone-sensitive cancers.
Education and reference only. This explains the procedure in general terms and is not medical advice. Your own care, risks and recovery will be explained by the team looking after you.
Answers
Hormone Therapy: frequently asked questions
How long does hormone therapy last?
It is often taken for several years, especially after breast or prostate cancer treatment, to reduce the risk of the cancer returning. For advanced cancer it may continue as long as it keeps working.
Will hormone therapy cause menopause symptoms?
It can, because it lowers or blocks hormones, leading to symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats and mood changes. Your team can suggest ways to manage these.
Related
Other cancer treatment
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — cancer treatment guidance
- Relevant Royal College / professional body
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