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Dementia diagnosis and hormone therapy for PC

Mazza710
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Hi there,

My father in law was diagnosed with prostate cancer in September and is just about to begin a course of hormone therapy with some radio therapy in April.

Meanwhile, he’s also been going through dementia testing and has an appointment with a psychiatrist in early February. We highly suspect he has had dementia for a while due to memory loss, confabulation etc.

However we have heard about the link between hormone therapy for PC and dementia/dementia like symptoms and we were wondering what we should be asking the psychiatrist and/or oncologist about this? Will hormone therapy exacerbate his symptoms? Should we be thinking about an alternative?

Thanks. 

  • Hi there mazza710 and thanks for posting

    I am sorry to hear about your father in laws diagnosis alongside being tested for dementia, this is understandably a difficult time for you all as you navigate this time and what is best for him.

    It is difficult to say how the hormonal therapy may affect your dad in terms of thinking and memory as mentioned on our web pages but it definitely is worth a discussion with your father in laws doctor.

    They are in the best position to discuss the risks versus the benefits of the treatment and find the best way forward for your father in law. Every patient is different and therefore needs to be looked at individually when considering treatment options.

    I hope you have a better understanding of the situation soon and a decision can be made to best suit suit your father in law.

    Do get back in touch anytime or if you prefer do give one of the nurses a call on the helpline. We're here weekdays 9-5 on 0808 800 4040.

    Best wishes

    Naomi

  • Offline in reply to CRUK Nurse Naomi

    Thank you for your advice. 

    He’s been prescribed Bicutamide and begins this week. However he is also an excessive drinker but his GP hasn’t mentioned that he should reduce his alcohol intake (approx 10-15 units per day).

    It’s a real worry but he’s very stubborn. 

    Thanks again. 

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