The Role of the Advanced Practice Provider in Bone Health Management for the Prostate Cancer Population

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is standard, first-line therapy for many aspects of prostate cancer treatment. Although ADT can be an effective treatment to inhibit androgen-fueled cell growth in prostate cancer, suppression has significant side effects, including the development or exacerbation of underlying osteoporosis. Patients may be unaware of the adverse effects on bone health and muscle strength commonly associated with ADT. Practice standards require consistent screening of all patients with prostate cancer before ADT initiation to facilitate optimal baseline and subsequent osteoporosis management.