Advanced Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner (AOCNP) Certification Practice Test 2025 - Free AOCNP Practice Questions and Study Guide

Androgen deprivation therapy is a treatment strategy used in managing prostate cancer that specifically targets the reduction of male hormones, primarily testosterone. Prostate cancer cells often rely on androgens like testosterone to grow and proliferate. By lowering the levels of these hormones, the therapy effectively inhibits the growth of cancer cells and can lead to a decrease in tumor size or slowing of disease progression.

This approach is central to the therapeutic strategy for prostate cancer because it addresses the hormone-dependent nature of this type of cancer. Without sufficient levels of androgens, the cancer cells are less able to grow and spread, making this an essential component of management for patients with advanced disease or those at high risk of progression. The focus on hormone reduction is a cornerstone of treatment protocols and can be accomplished through various methods, including medical castration or surgical castration.