NEJM 4 23 2026 Transdermal Estradiol Patches in Locally Advanced Prostate Cancer.

This study explores the effectiveness of transdermal estradiol patchesas a modern alternative to traditional hormone therapy for managing advanced prostate cancer. By comparing these patches against standard LHRH agonists, researchers found that the skin-based treatment is equally effective at preventing the spread of the disease and maintaining low testosterone levels. While the patches significantly reduce common side effects like hot flashes, they do lead to a higher frequency of breast tissue swelling. Ultimately, the trial demonstrates that this delivery method offers a viable and safe option for patients, successfully bypassing the cardiovascular risks typically associated with oral estrogen.