Refusing hormone therapy for prostate cancer

Androgen deprivation therapy lowers the effect or production of male hormones that can stimulate prostate cancer cells. It may be used alone, with radiotherapy, or with other cancer treatments, depending on the disease and treatment goal. Common concerns include hot flushes, sexual changes, mood changes, tiredness, and effects on muscle or bone health. GnRH agonist drugs are one way hormone signals may be reduced. Your personal benefits and harms depend on the cancer and your health.

Ask why hormone therapy has been recommended now, what it is intended to achieve, and what could happen if it is delayed or declined. Discuss other treatment approaches, monitoring, symptom control, and whether a second opinion is appropriate. If side effects are the main concern, ask about prevention and management rather than stopping injections or tablets without advice. Make a written plan for PSA checks, appointments, and who to call between visits.

Seek urgent help for new leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe back pain, or sudden inability to pass urine. These symptoms can signal pressure on nerves or urinary blockage and need prompt assessment. Contact your cancer team for worsening bone pain, blood in urine, or a noticeable change in urinary symptoms.

Ask how hormone therapy fits your treatment plan, what alternatives exist, how side effects can be managed, and how your cancer and symptoms will be monitored if you decline.