Management and mitigation of metabolic bone disease and cardiac adverse events throughout the prostate cancer pathway: clinical review and practical recommendations

Abstract

Some current prostate cancer (PCa) treatment regimens are known to have adverse effects on bone, for example androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), and on cardiovascular health, for example ADT and antiandrogen therapy. Strengthened recommendations for the practical assessment and management of bone and cardiovascular health in men with PCa are needed. This review aims to provide practical guidance for healthcare providers along the continuum of patient care on the management of bone and cardiovascular health in men with PCa undergoing ADT and antiandrogen therapy based on real-world evidence. Evidence was identified by searching PubMed for publications that reported the effects of PCa treatment on bone or cardiovascular health in a real-world setting and were published between January 2017 and August 2023. Review articles were excluded. The evidence identified indicates that ADT decreases bone mineral density (BMD) and increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Bone-protecting agents (BPAs) are effective at improving bone health in patients undergoing ADT and antiandrogen therapy at all stages of the PCa pathway. Despite this, the use and timing of initiation of BPAs are variable. Furthermore, real-world studies have confirmed an association between ADT and cardiovascular risk. As survival outcomes improve, maintenance of bone and cardiovascular health is increasingly important in men with PCa. Risk is a continuous variable that must be assessed throughout the continuum of PCa treatment. Therefore, all men starting ADT should be assessed for bone and cardiovascular risk. Lifestyle adjustments, dietary supplementation and pharmacological intervention may be advised.