According to results presented at the 2007 annual meeting of the American Society of Therapeutic Radiation and Oncology (ASTRO), walking can reverse the effects of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) on bone loss among men with prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer diagnosed in men in the United States. One common approach to treatment of prostate cancer is ADT, also referred to as hormone therapy. Prostate cancer is stimulated to grow from exposure to the circulating male hormone testosterone. ADT reduces the production of testosterone in the male body, reducing its growth stimulatory effects on cancer cells.

A significant side effect associated with ADT is loss of bone density or bone mass. Bone loss increases the risk of osteoporosis, bone fracture, pain, hospitalization, and immobility and requires increased medical costs. Therefore, many physicians recommend calcium supplementation and bone density scans prior to and during therapy with ADT for these patients.

Researchers from Johns Hopkins University recently conducted a clinical trial intended to evaluate effects of exercise on fatigue levels among men with prostate cancer who underwent treatment with ADT. This trial included 70 men with early prostate cancer who were scheduled to undergo radiation therapy; half of these patients were also scheduled to receive ADT. At initiation of the trial, these men were considered to have a sedentary lifestyle. Half the men were instructed to begin exercising with just 20- to 30-minute walks during the week. The remaining half was instructed to continue their sedentary lifestyles.

• The men who exercised and received ADT actually experienced an increase in their bone mass (0.48% increase).
• Men who did not exercise and received ADT had a 2.14% decrease in their bone mass.

The researchers concluded that exercise prevents the loss of bone mass among men with prostate cancer who are being treated with ADT. Patients who are receiving ADT or who are expecting to receive ADT may wish to speak with their physicians about their individual risks and benefits of an exercise program.

Reference: Chiplis P, et al. Effects of exercise on bone loss and functional capacity during prostate cancer treatment. International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology and Physics. 2007;69:supplement S (S321-322).

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