What is the primary purpose of hormonal therapy in cancer treatment?

The primary purpose of hormonal therapy in cancer treatment is to add, block, or remove hormones to slow or stop cancer growth. This approach is particularly effective in hormone-sensitive cancers, such as certain types of breast and prostate cancers, where the growth of cancer cells is driven by hormones like estrogen and testosterone. By manipulating hormone levels, hormonal therapy can inhibit cancer cell proliferation, impacting tumor size and progression.

For instance, in cases of breast cancer, drugs may be used to block estrogen receptors or lower estrogen production, leading to reduced stimulation of cancerous cells. Similarly, in prostate cancer, hormone therapies can lower testosterone levels or block its action, which can help control the disease.

This therapeutic strategy differs from other cancer treatments that focus on different mechanisms. Immunotherapy, for example, targets the immune system to help it recognize and combat cancer cells. Targeted therapies may focus on altering the DNA structure of cancer cells to prevent them from dividing, while radiation therapy uses high-energy particles to directly damage cancer cells. Hormonal therapy’s unique mechanism of action emphasizes the importance of hormonal influences in specific cancers, making it an integral part of communication and treatment in oncology.