Introduction

Previous research show that up to seventy percent do not meet the recommendations of physical activity during cancer treatment and due to this several health benefits can potentially be missed. This study focus on men undergoing androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) treatment for prostate cancer, who also participated in a physical activity program as a health promoting intervention.

Aim and theoretical framework

The aim is twofold. First, we aim to describe and analyze how the participants talk about their treatment and its side effects in relation to the body and masculinity. Second, we aim to describe and analyse of how the participants understood, and what motivated them to participate in, the physical activity program. Theoretically, the study lean on phenomenological theories on embodiment, combined with a sociologically informed framework found in critical studies on men and masculinity.

Method

The study uses a case study based and qualitative approach to the research. Men over 65 years undergoing ADT treatment and participating in a twelve-week physical training program designed by physiotherapists, and including resistance-, cardio- and balance training. The men participated together in a group, two times per week together with the physiotherapists in a local gym. Focus group interviews and individual interviews have been conducted.

Result

Preliminary results show that the medical suspension of testosterone, impacted not only participants understanding of self as men, but also how they approached their bodies. Testosterone was discussed as a source of masculinity and masculine traits. Consequently, the absence of testosterone following treatment led to ongoing reflections on how to understand the (ageing) body and its relationship with masculinity. The ageing ADT body with growing breasts and lack of libido became a site for emasculation, and bodily detachment. The men addressed this through a stoic masculinity, and instead of dealing with this emotionally they turned their attentions and desires to having a capable body, being able to do physical work. Though the training program was appreciated, seemingly the men’s’ participating was depended on the involvement of their physicians. It was also understood as an opportunity to socialise with other men in the same situation.

Discussion

Findings suggest that masculinity have a cultivating role when experiencing ageing and meeting social norms. Feelings of disconnection could de countered through physical activity motivated by having a capable body. Although, men dealing with side effects from ADT treatment rely on recruitment from physical health care professionals as facilitators.