The role of exercise in managing the adverse effects of androgen deprivation therapy in men with prostate cancer

Background: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is used in the treatment of prostate cancer; however, the side effects of this therapy can be detrimental to a man's physical and mental health. There has been a growing interest in exercise as a management strategy for many of these problems. Objectives: The aim of this paper is to critically review the ways that resistance and aerobic exercise can ameliorate the adverse effects of ADT in men with prostate cancer. We also provide guidelines for exercise prescription and suggestions to improve adherence. Methods: Studies investigating the effectiveness of exercise for men receiving ADT were reviewed. The online MEDLINE database was searched systematically using appropriate keywords. Citation tracking from these retrieved papers was also used. Major findings: Moderate to high intensity exercise has been shown to reduce the negative impact of many of the side effects of ADT such as muscle loss, decreased strength, fatigue, decreased functional performance, and impaired quality of life. Conclusion: Exercise should be viewed as a primary way to combat the detrimental effects of ADT. Men starting or already undergoing this treatment should be given guidelines for resistance and aerobic exercises.