A Pilot Study Of The Effects Of Androgen Deprivation Therapy On Physical Function And Comprehensive Geriatric Health In Older Men With Prostate Cancer.

e16510Background: Alteration of the androgen axis through androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is the mainstay of prostate cancer (PCa) treatment. Unfortunately, the resultant hypogonadal state has detrimental effects on muscle and bone and may impair physical function (PF). Older patients may be more vulnerable to PF changes while on ADT. We conducted a pilot study to evaluate the changes in PF and geriatric health in older men initiating ADT using tests easily employed in routine clinical practice. Methods: Men with PCa initiating ADT were enrolled and were assessed every 3 months (mos) for up to 12 mos. PF was measured using the short physical performance battery (SPPB) and geriatric health was screened using the Vulnerable Elders Survey (VES13) which predicts potential death or decline over 2 years. The primary endpoint was change in SPPB and VES13 at 3 mos. Results: We enrolled 17 patients with a median age of 75 years (range 67-85) beginning ADT therapy. Fourteen patients had metastasis, 2 had locally...