Story perspectives

Study Reveals Estradiol Patches as Effective Prostate Cancer Treatment

3/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that transdermal estradiol patches and Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists have similar effectiveness for locally advanced prostate cancer.
The trial reported 3-year metastasis-free survival of 87.1% with estradiol and 85.9% with LHRH agonists.
Transdermal estradiol patches caused fewer hot flashes but more gynecomastia.
Both treatments maintained low testosterone levels, and discussions questioned the ongoing need for androgen deprivation therapy.

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Story summary

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that transdermal estradiol patches and Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonists have similar effectiveness for locally advanced prostate cancer.
The trial reported 3-year metastasis-free survival of 87.1% with estradiol and 85.9% with LHRH agonists.
Transdermal estradiol patches caused fewer hot flashes but more gynecomastia.
Both treatments maintained low testosterone levels, and discussions questioned the ongoing need for androgen deprivation therapy.