Screening for androgen deprivation therapy related side effects in men with prostate cancer

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a common method of treatment for prostate cancer. There are a variety of side effects associated with its use that can negatively impact health and quality of life, yet a significant gap exists in the literature around comprehensive screening recommendations. As a result, this project seeks to answer the question: For Nurse Practitioners (NPs) practicing in a primary care setting, what screening is required to identify side effects in men with prostate cancer receiving ADT? Eligibility criteria for this literature review included data related to ADT and men with prostate cancer, with no limitation to age or stage of disease. The majority of the participants in the primary studies included at least one study group receiving ADT in the primary care setting. This review presented findings based on the physical, cognitive and psychological side effects of ADT, followed by a description of clinical practice guidelines, clinical reviews and editorials in order to highlight the gaps in screening recommendations. Through this process, recommendations for the screening of each individual side effect were developed. It was determined that patients should undergo follow-up within 3 months of ADT initiation, followed by every 3-6 months. Limitations of this project include a scarcity of studies on specific side effects. Implications for practice include patient and primary care provider (PCP) education as well as the development of comprehensive guidelines. Moreover, further research is required for newly defined side effects. It is through appropriate careening that ADT related side effects are identified and treated, thus limited their impact on health and quality of life. --Leaf 2.