The side effects of androgen deprivation therapy make the treatment option a tough decision for many men faced with getting it. Taking chemicals which do the equivalent of castrating a man cause weight gain, osteoporosis, weakness, hot flashes, and mood swings. But it does extend their lives.

But the lack of testosterone can be liberating according to a man living with androgen deprivation therapy, and his article is featured in the New York Times article, Disfiguring Treatment? No, It Was Healing.

In the article Richard Wassersug talks about how he told his daughter about the treatment, her response and all about how it has changed how he looks at life.

Analysis: A "must read".

_{Source: Richard Wassersug. (2007). Disfiguring Treatment? No, It Was Healing. New York Times. Mar 27, 2007. (online edition).}