Where it applies
Most commonly in hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer and in prostate cancer, where receptor status is established by pathology.
Hormone therapy
Treatment for cancers driven by hormone signalling.
Some cancers depend on hormone signalling to grow. In those cancers, treatment that reduces or blocks that signalling is an important part of care, often over years rather than months.
What it involves
What hormone therapy involves.
Receptor testing
Testing on the tumour tissue determines whether hormone-directed treatment is relevant at all.
Duration
Hormone therapy is frequently continued for several years, and adherence over time has a real influence on outcome.
Expected effects
Effects vary by drug and may include hot flushes, joint or muscle symptoms, mood or sleep change, sexual health effects and fatigue.
Bone and metabolic health
Some hormone treatments affect bone density and metabolic parameters, so monitoring and preventive measures may be advised.
Long-term review
Ongoing review addresses tolerability, adherence, symptom management and surveillance alongside the rest of the follow-up plan.
Do not stop or change hormone therapy on your own. Side effects are often manageable, and stopping treatment early can affect outcomes; discuss any difficulty with your treating team.
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