Tuesday 19 August 2025
Image from our men's support group in Nottingham
Men with prostate cancer can access expert emotional and practical support for the gruelling side effects of hormone therapy, thanks to new workshops provided by Maggie's.
We've introduced a pioneering programme of Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) workshops, which help men understand and manage the physical and emotional side effects of hormone treatment for prostate cancer.
The workshops enable participants to gain a better understanding of ADT, how it works, and what to expect during treatment.
The sessions then explore the possible side effects of ADT, which can range from:
The sessions also offer lifestyle advice, including guidance on nutrition, exercise, and mental health strategies to help manage the impact of ADT.
Additionally, the workshop offers a place for people to meet others going through a similar experience, creating a sense of community and reducing isolation.
The sessions are facilitated by Maggie’s expert cancer support specialists, often alongside a representative from the hospital oncology team.
ADT workshops are already taking place regularly in partnership with the Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton, Charing Cross Hospital in Hammersmith, St James's University Hospital in Leeds, and Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge.
The initiative will be rolled out across more centres in the UK from this year.
Dame Laura Lee DBE, Chief Executive of Maggie’s, said:
“When men come to Maggie’s, many feel unprepared to deal with the side effects of hormone therapy that is commonly used to treat prostate cancer.
“Androgen deprivation therapy, or ADT, can lead to fatigue, mood swings, weight gain, changes in sexual function and men can be left feeling confused and isolated, placing a significant emotional and physical burden on the person with cancer and those close to them.
“Our androgen support sessions are delivered in partnership with local hospitals and help men understand these side effects and develop strategies to better manage them, and encourage men to talk openly about what they’re experiencing.
“Maggie’s is a space where men can get practical information and emotional support from professionals and meet others going through the same thing.
"If you, a friend, or family member have any questions about hormone therapy or just want to talk, drop into your nearest Maggie’s centre."
Phil is 72 years old and living with advanced prostate cancer.
Following several different treatments over the last six years, he is now receiving ongoing hormone therapy.
He shares the impact of his treatment side effects and the importance of attending the advanced prostate cancer support group at Maggie's.
"With incontinence, I wear a pad discreetly to stop any leakages, and I’m pleased to say I have managed to keep control of things.
"The biggest one was obviously losing my sexual functions, that took a while to get over, and I did get quite depressed about it.
"Being a man, there was this feeling of, ‘oh dear, I’m not the man I was’.
"It’s been 6 years since I last had sex. At the time, it was a really big thing, and it took me two or three years to get over it, but my wife and I have moved on. Time is a great healer.
"My wife has been amazing. It has been a big deal for both of us, but we love each other, and not having sex doesn’t mean we don’t still love each other.
Whatever kind of cancer, whatever stage you're at, Maggie's is here with you.
Our expert staff are here to listen to your concerns and find the help you need wherever you are – over the phone and online.
There are men’s support groups on offer, as well as specific cancer type groups, exercise, nutrition and one to one support with a psychologist.
If you or anyone you know has cancer, they can just come into any of the centres, there is no need for a referral or appointment.
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