According to Medline Plus, a new study indicates that androgen deprivation therapy, used to treat prostate cancer, may increase the risk of broken bones. Because of these findings, doctors are cautioned to rethink using this type of therapy in older men with localized prostate cancer. Data was collected from more than 46,500 men ages 66 years and older, who had survived for at least 5 years after being diagnosed with prostate cancer and who had received androgen deprivation therapy. The study revealed that 20% were at risk of a fracture and 57% were at risk of a second fracture. Many times, older men who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer are not able to undergo radiation or surgery to remove the prostate, so long-term androgen deprivation therapy is prescribed. Older age often comes other health ailments that only amplify the risk of a fracture. Researchers believe that older men with pre-existing conditions should not receive androgen deprivation therapy for a long period of time. Since a fracture can significantly impact the quality of life for an older patient, doctors should first evaluate the risk of a bone fracture before prescribing treatment. When a healthcare provider is aware of risks in any type of treatment and fails to inform the patient or fails to evaluate their medical history and it causes unnecessary injury, they may be held liable. If you have been seriously injured because of a healthcare provider’s medical negligence, contact a New York medical malpractice lawyer who can determine if you are eligible to file a claim.
Contacting a New York Medical Malpractice Lawyer
When you or a loved one has sustained a serious injury because of medical negligence, you are entitled to seek compensation for your damages and suffering. Consulting with a New York medical malpractice lawyer can help you better understand your rights, determine liability for your injuries and decide if filing a medical malpractice claim is right for you. At Gacovino Lake & Associates we have formed a dedicated network of medical malpractice lawyers that serve clients nationwide. Our New York office serves residents of the 5 boroughs with their auto accident, medical malpractice, defective drug, premises liability and Workers’ Compensation claims. For experienced help with your medical malpractice claim, contact us today – 1-800-246-4878.
