Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is routinely used as first-line treatment for locally advanced and metastatic prostate cancer. However, it is associated with many side effects such as increased fat mass and reduced skeletal muscle mass, cardiorespiratory fitness and metabolic health. Ultimately, these negative changes induced by ADT contribute to reduced health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study evaluates whether 3-months of exercise can mitigate treatment toxicity in prostate cancer patients initiating ADT.
In a parallel groups, prospective, randomised controlled design, participants were randomly allocated to a standard care control group or standard care plus exercise group. The exercise group completed 3-months of combined aerobic and resistance training. The standard care group did not receive any supervised exercise or specific physical activity recommendations. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 3-month (post-intervention), and 6-month (follow-up) endpoints.
