Prostate cancer, osteoporosis and fracture risk.

Prostate cancer is often treated with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). Although this treatment is effective the associated hypogonadism causes accelerated bone loss, osteoporosis and increased fracture risk in men with prostate cancer, even in the absence of bone metastases. In addition to the negative effects of ADT on bone metabolism, men with prostate cancer are at increased risk of osteoporosis due to advanced age, poor nutrition and vitamin D deficiency. Some treatments for prostate cancer avoid this side effect and these are discussed, together with treatment strategies to minimise the impact of ADT on bone health. Copyright 2006 S. Karger AG, Basel.