Metabolic syndrome in prostate cancer: impact on risk and outcomes

Androgen-deprivation therapy (ADT) is a fundamental element of treatment for nonlocalized prostate cancer and for patients with high-risk disease who are not candidates for radical treatment. ADT has been linked to metabolic syndrome, which involves changes in metabolic factors. While distinct from classic metabolic syndrome, this type does include changes in body composition, lipid profiles and insulin resistance. The constellation of risk factors may be associated with cardiovascular morbidity and the onset of diabetes mellitus. Physicians should discuss in detail the risk and benefits of ADT, as well as any needed lifestyle modifications with patients before beginning therapy.