Impact of androgen deprivation therapy on sexual function

Clarisse R Mazzola1, John P Mulhall

  • 1Sexual and Reproductive Medicine Program, Urology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10065, USA.

Insights

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer can impair sexual function, impacting quality of life for sexually active young men. This review examines ADT

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Urology
  • Sexual Medicine

Background:

  • Prostate cancer patients often require androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).
  • Younger patients undergoing ADT frequently prioritize maintaining sexual activity.
  • ADT-induced sexual dysfunction significantly reduces quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the effects of ADT on sexual function in animal models.
  • To provide a detailed review of ADT's impact on human sexual health.
  • To discuss treatment options for ADT-related sexual dysfunction.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of animal model studies on ADT and sexual function.
  • Comprehensive review of human studies on ADT and sexual health.
  • Analysis of current treatment strategies for sexual side effects of ADT.

Main Results:

  • ADT negatively affects sexual function across animal models.
  • Human studies confirm significant adverse effects of ADT on sexual health.
  • Effective management strategies for ADT-induced sexual dysfunction exist.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding ADT's impact on sexual physiology is crucial for patient care.
  • Addressing sexual health concerns in prostate cancer patients on ADT is essential.
  • Appropriate treatment options can mitigate ADT's negative effects on sexual function.

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