BROOKLYN 2

RADIOTHERAPY Catherine BAIRD Sat 31 st Aug 2013 Session 1 Talk 2 0946 1001 ABSTRACT Prostate cancer was the most commonly registered cancer in 2008 High survival rates following treatment emphasize the importance of enhancing patients quality of life Prostate cancer can be treated with surgery radiation therapy and hormone therapy all of which have side effects that impact on a patients quality of life This study reviewed ten recent qualitative primary research studies to determine the impact prostate cancer treatment side effects have on patient sexuality Key findings suggest that erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence have a significant impact on sexuality and sexual function by affecting patient selfesteem masculinity and relationships regardless of age Some men rationalized their side effects against their survival whereas others questioned if given the option again they would have treatment Current erectile dysfunction treatments are accompanied by more side effects and are often discontinued by patients The impact these treatments have on spontaneity was found to be significant Both patients and health professionals are hesitant to discuss sexual issues resulting in poor communication and patients sexual needs not being addressed From this review it can be deduced that further training for health professionals is required to enable better communication around management of sexual issues in order to meet patients needs enhancing the quality of their care

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