- A new study by University College London (UCL) found that patches delivering oestradiol, a form of oestrogen, are as effective as injections in preventing the spread of locally advanced prostate cancer.
- The research, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, involved 1,360 men across the UK with an average age of 72.
- The patches, similar to those used for menopause symptoms, resulted in fewer side effects such as hot flushes, bone density problems, and heart disease risk factors compared to injections, though they caused more breast tissue swelling.
- Experts say that the patches offer a more convenient and less invasive treatment option, as they can be applied by patients at home, unlike injections which require hospital or GP visits.
- The findings are expected to provide men with locally advanced prostate cancer greater choice in their hormone therapy.
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