Understanding Prostate Cancer Fatigue

Prostate cancer patients often undergo androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. While this treatment is effective, it has a significant downside: many patients experience a significant drop in energy, often accompanied by depression and cognitive issues. Until now, the reasons behind this fatigue were not well understood.

Recent research has shed light on this issue, pinpointing inflammation as a major contributor to these neurological symptoms. A study published in the journal Cancer by Heather Jim and her team at the Moffitt Cancer Centre highlights a particular inflammatory marker, interleukin-6 (IL-6), that is strongly associated with the fatigue experienced by patients on ADT.

“This is the first study that we know of that examines the association between inflammation and symptoms of fatigue, depression, or cognitive impairment in prostate cancer patients receiving ADT,” stated Jim. “Because the blocking of testosterone can increase inflammation in the body, we believe that inflammation may also be contributing to these symptoms.”

The researchers monitored a group of patients undergoing ADT alongside healthy males, assessing changes in energy and mood, collecting blood samples, and conducting various neuropsychological evaluations. They analyzed these samples for several inflammatory markers, such as interleukins (cytokines produced by white blood cells), soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor-2 (sTNF-R2), and C-reactive protein (CRP).

Findings indicated that elevated IL-6 levels correlated with heightened feelings of fatigue, lethargy, and depression.

“Interleukin-6 is a pro-inflammatory cytokine often linked to sleep disruption, leading to fatigue,” explained study lead Aasha Hoogland. “Research indicates that testosterone can mitigate the effects of IL-6, but ADT reduces testosterone levels, which likely explains the increased IL-6 in these patients.”

The prostate, a gland the size of a walnut, is responsible for producing seminal fluid, which nourishes and transports sperm. While most prostate cancers result in gradual enlargement of the gland and are typically not dangerous, some aggressive forms can spread rapidly to other tissues and organs.

In 2020, an estimated 23,300 men received a prostate cancer diagnosis, accounting for 20% of all new cancer cases among men. Tragically, over 4,000 men succumb to this disease each year.

This study marks a significant step toward enhancing the quality of life for prostate cancer patients undergoing treatment. Future research will explore the potential benefits of anti-inflammatory supplements and increased physical activity in alleviating fatigue and depressive symptoms in these individuals.

The first video, "What Every Man MUST KNOW To PREVENT Prostate Cancer," featuring Dr. Ted Schaeffer and Rich Roll, delves into essential knowledge that men should possess regarding prostate cancer prevention strategies. This video provides valuable insights into proactive measures that can be taken.

In the second video, "A Medical Oncologist Compares Surgery and Radiation for Prostate Cancer," Dr. Mark Scholz discusses the comparative effectiveness of surgical and radiation treatments for prostate cancer, providing viewers with a comprehensive overview of treatment options available to them.