Prostate cancer is a hormone dependent cancer, fueled primarily by testosterone which is why oncologists aim to lower testosterone levels in prostate cancer patients.  Although, over time, cancer cells adapt to the lower testosterone levels. 

According to Elizabeth Kessler, MD, there has been emerging clinical research across the country in which very high doses of testosterone are used to combat the adaptation of cells in prostate cancers.  While it may seem counterintuitive, this approach has worked very well. However, there is always a chance that cancer cells will once again outsmart this approach through biological adaptations.  It is for this reason, Dr. Kessler explains, that a switch mechanism has been built into prostate cancer treatment, if there are signs that the high dose testosterone is not working against the cancer, treatment would abruptly switch back to the low testosterone state.  This approach is based off research showing positive response rate in cancers that use the switchback method from a high to low testosterone state. 

Dr. Kessler credits ongoing clinical research at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus with the ability to provide comprehensive care to cancer patients. "People here really care about what they're doing and are really invested in advancing the science while also taking care of people as individuals" says Dr. Kessler.