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Indian Cancer Treatment Centre | ICTC

Services

Hormonal Therapies

Hormonal Therapies

Targeted Treatment for Hormone-Sensitive Cancers

What is Hormonal Therapy?

Hormonal therapy, also known as endocrine therapy, is a cancer treatment that blocks or lowers hormone levels to slow or stop the growth of hormone-sensitive tumors. It is primarily used for breast and prostate cancers, which rely on hormones like estrogen or testosterone to grow.

Why is Hormonal Therapy Used?

Hormonal therapy helps in reducing cancer recurrence, slowing disease progression, and managing symptoms. It is often used:

  • After surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy to enhance treatment effectiveness.
  • As a primary treatment for hormone-dependent cancers.
  • To shrink tumors before surgery or radiation in some cases.

Benefits of Hormonal Therapy

  • Slows or stops cancer growth in hormone-sensitive tumors
  • Reduces the risk of recurrence after primary treatment
  • Can be used alone or in combination with other cancer treatments
  • Available in oral, injectable, or surgical forms

Types of Hormonal Therapy

Hormonal therapy can be administered in different ways depending on the cancer type and treatment plan:

1. Hormone-Blocking Medications

  • Selective Estrogen Receptor Modulators (SERMs): Block estrogen’s effects on cancer cells (e.g., Tamoxifen).
  • Aromatase Inhibitors: Prevent estrogen production in postmenopausal women (e.g., Letrozole, Anastrozole).
  • Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT): Reduces testosterone levels for prostate cancer treatment.
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2. Hormone-Producing Organ Suppression

  • Medications that stop the body from producing hormones (e.g., LHRH agonists like Leuprolide).
  • Surgical removal of hormone-producing organs (ovaries or testicles) in certain cases.

Hormonal Therapy Administration

  • Treatment is customized based on cancer type, stage, and individual factors.
  • Oral medications are taken daily, while injections may be given monthly or quarterly.
  • Regular monitoring is necessary to track effectiveness and manage side effects.

Potential Side Effects and Management

Hormonal therapy can cause some side effects, which vary based on the treatment approach:

  • Hot flashes, fatigue, and mood changes – Managed with lifestyle adjustments and medications.
  • Bone thinning (osteoporosis) – Calcium supplements and exercise help maintain bone health.
  • Changes in libido or sexual function – Supportive care and counseling can help manage these effects.

Do’s & Don’ts during treatments

Do’s

  • Keep yourself hydrated
  • Maintain proper hygiene
  • Apply sunscreen while going out

Don’ts

  • Avoid large meals
  • Avoid those who are contagious or have any infections.
  • Avoid eating raw or undercooked food.

FAQ’s

How long is hormonal therapy needed?

It varies but is often prescribed for 5-10 years to prevent recurrence.

No, hormonal therapy specifically targets hormone-sensitive cancers, whereas chemotherapy affects all fast-growing cells.
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No, it is effective for hormone-sensitive cancers, such as certain breast and prostate cancers.

Check other Services as well

Check other Services as well

Cancer screening including Thermal mammography

Early cancer detection using thermal mammography, providing radiation-free imaging for safer and more accurate breast cancer screening and diagnosis.

Advanced targeted therapy

Personalized treatment attacking specific cancer cells, reducing harm to healthy tissues while increasing therapy effectiveness and reducing side effects for better patient outcomes.

Scalp cooling

A non-invasive technique reducing chemotherapy-induced hair loss by cooling the scalp, improving patient comfort and emotional well-being during cancer treatment.

ICTC Numbers Speak For Itself

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Specialized Doctors at ICTC

Dr Salil Patkar

MBBS. MD. DM (Medical Oncology) Director. Consultant Oncologist Apollo Hospital. Certified in Immuno-Oncology and Precision Oncology-Harvard Medical School.

Oncologist & Hematologist

Dr Amit Ghanekar

MD, DNB (Oncology) ESMO Certified Cancer Specialist HEMAT – Oncologist BMT Physician
Cancer & Blood Specialist

Dr Rohit Pai

MD Medicine (AIIMS) DM Medical Oncology (AIIMS) MRCP (UK), DNB, ECMO

Medico Oncologist & Hemato Oncologist