Hormonal therapy, known as anti-estrogen therapy, endocrine therapy, or hormone therapy, is employed to address hormone receptor-positive breast cancer at various stages. It is a form of cancer treatment that involves the removal, blocking, or addition of specific hormones to the body.
Certain types of cancer rely on the body's natural hormones to support their growth. It's essential to distinguish hormone therapy for cancer treatment from menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) or hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which are designed to address menopausal symptoms. Explore more about menopausal hormone therapy here.
This article delves into the fundamentals of hormone therapy for cancer treatment and the specific types of cancer for which it is applied. Similar to other cancer treatments, this approach may entail side effects. Discover more about the potential side effects of hormone therapy.
Hormones, chemical messengers produced naturally by the body's glands, play a crucial role in regulating various cellular and organ activities. Circulating through the bloodstream, hormones influence processes such as growth, sexual function, reproduction, mood, and energy metabolism.
These chemicals are produced by key glands in the body, including the thyroid and parathyroid glands, adrenal glands, pancreas, ovaries, and testicles. Together, these glands form the endocrine system, encompassing all hormones and their respective glands.
Hormone therapy intervenes in the body's hormonal balance in different ways, aiming to modify hormone levels. Medical tests may determine whether a cancer is responsive to hormones. Doctors may recommend hormone therapy to:
In cancer treatment, hormone therapy is utilized alongside other modalities like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or surgery. It may also be administered independently. The application of hormone therapy varies based on the treatment phase, including:
The goal of hormone therapy is contingent on the cancer type and its stage. It may aim to prevent cancer recurrence, halt or slow down cancer growth, or manage and alleviate side effects associated with cancer treatment. This supportive care, known as palliative care, is integral to overall cancer care and treatment.
Hormone therapy proves effective in controlling various cancers influenced by hormonal factors. Common cancers treated with hormone therapy include:
In addition to these common cancers, hormone therapy may also be recommended for less prevalent types, such as: