Prostate Cancer Survivors Report on Treatment Outcomes

Prostate Cancer Survivors Report on Treatment Outcomes

In a recent survey of prostate cancer survivors, 45% of the men said they’d felt some anxiety or depression, according to new research.

About half reported significant sexual problems, too, the scientists said.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is quite common after prostate cancer treatment. Men might also feel less interested in sex or struggle with urinary incontinence.

The Europa Uomo Patient Reported Outcomes Study (EUPROMS) was the largest of its kind, involving 2,943 European men over age 45. Findings were presented in July 2020 at the European Association of Urology’s 2020 Virtual Congress. The study was not peer-reviewed.

All of the men were either being treated for prostate cancer at the time of the survey, or they had completed treatment. A range of different therapies had been used, including surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and androgen deprivation therapy. Some men underwent active surveillance – they weren’t treated for prostate cancer until symptoms worsened.

The men’s average age was 70 years, and their average age at diagnosis was 64.

The 20-minute online survey included three standard quality of life questionnaires.

About 28% said that sexual dysfunction was a “big problem,” while 22% called it moderate.

Problems after cancer often depended on the type of treatment received. For example, men who had their prostate gland removed (an operation called radical prostatectomy) had more problems with urinary incontinence. Men who had radiation therapy were twice as likely to report fatigue compared to men who had surgery. However, fatigue was even more common for men treated with chemotherapy.

In general, men whose cancer was caught early had a higher quality of life, the authors said.

“This means efforts toward early detection and awareness are essential to avoid unnecessary deterioration in quality of life,” said Europa Uomo Chairman André Deschamps in a press release. “Wherever it is possible and safe, active surveillance should be considered the first line treatment to ensure best quality of life.”

“We completely agree that early detection and treatment is essential if we are to avoid problems with quality of life later on,” commented Professor Arnulf Stenzl, the European Association of Urology’s Adjunct Secretary General – Executive Member Science.

“It shows that for many men, quality of life can be poor after most prostate cancer treatment, especially in advanced disease. This message is clear, and we need to listen to the voices of these patients,” Professor Stenzl added.

Resources

European Association of Urology

“Largest-ever study by patients shows prostate cancer treatment has significant impact on quality of life”

(Press release. July 18, 2020)

https://eaucongress.uroweb.org/press-releases-2/largest-ever-study-by-patients-shows-prostate-cancer-treatment-has-significant-impact-on-quality-of-life/

Medscape Medical News

Hein, Ingrid

“Sexual Distress, Depression After Prostate Cancer Treatment”

(May 20, 2020)

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/930858

You may also be interested in...

Other Popular Articles

What Is Jelqing, and Does It Actually Work?

The term “jelqing” refers to a set of penis stretching exercises that some believe can make the penis bigger. Although the practice has gained attention and popularity in blogs and internet forums in recent years, there is no scientific evidence that it is an effective way to permanently increase the size of one’s penis. In fact, in some cases, jelqing may actually cause damage to the penis, so it is a good idea to get all the facts before setting off to try it.

What Is Sensate Focus and How Does It Work?

Sensate focus is a technique used to improve intimacy and communication between partners around sex, reduce sexual performance anxiety, and shift away from ingrained, goal-oriented sexual patterns that may not be serving a couple.

What Is the Average Penis Size?

If you have ever wondered how your penis compares to others in terms of size, you are not alone. Many men are curious to know how their penises stack up compared to the average. Unfortunately, general curiosity can sometimes give way to full-on obsession and anxiety about penis size. This can be an unhealthy and often unnecessary fixation, especially because most men who think their penises are too small have perfectly normal-sized penises.

What Is Edging and Why Do People Do It?

Edging is the practice of stopping sexual stimulation before reaching orgasm to prolong a sexual experience. The term stems from the concept of approaching the metaphorical “edge” of orgasm but stopping before going over the edge.

The Sex-Positivity Movement: What it Means to Be Sex-Positive

You may have heard references to “being sex-positive” or “the sex-positivity movement” in popular culture. Various celebrities have brought attention to this movement by speaking out about their beliefs and personal experiences regarding sexuality, sexual health, body positivity, “slut-shaming,” and sexual assault.

Can Sex Reduce Menstrual Cramps?

The SMSNA periodically receives and publishes ‘guest editorials.’ The current article was submitted by Mia Barnes, a freelance writer and researcher who specializes in women's health, wellness, and healthy living. She is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine.

Having sex while you experience menstrual cramps is healthy and can provide significant benefits. While it might not be the first activity that comes to mind when your PMS or period cramping begins, many people enjoy sex to reduce menstrual cramps, experience increased pleasure and benefit from other advantages. Learn more about having sex while menstrual cramps are happening and how it can help your body.

Find a Provider

Find a provider who specializes in sexual medicine in your area.

FIND NOW
Image