Psychosocial impact of prostate cancer surgery on sexual intimacy

Abstract

e20685 Background: Prostate cancer survivors live with the day-to-day consequences of the disease and its treatment. Prostate cancer, has been labeled a “relationship disease” because it impacts both partners. Traditional research does not include psychosocial aspects of sexual well-being. We designed a retrospective survey asking patients’ and their partners’ about the physiologic and psychosocial changes experienced after prostate cancer treatment. Methods: The study design is a cross sectional retrospective mailing sent to men treated surgically for prostate cancer. Questions related to physiologic changes centered around foreplay, libido, erection, orgasm and ejaculation while emotional status, relationship/partnership quality, self image, and social support comprised the psychological questions. Of the total 47 items, 18 items assessed the above concepts in binary fashion while the remaining 29 used a Likert scale. Results: After obtaining IRB approval, we mailed consents to 368 men. Only 65 men acknowledged receiving the information and 51 consented to participate. The participants were a median age of 59.6, predominantly Caucasian (80%), and treated by prostatectomy or cryotherapy. In terms of emotional status, 20% were diagnosed with depression and 10% with anxiety since their prostate cancer diagnosis and of those 32% felt it affected their sexual status. One third of the men rated their overall sexual relationship with their partner as “poor.” Of those men, 44% also perceived their partner was supportive. Over 80% felt their partnership quality was “stable,” “strong,” and “happy.” Almost half (43%) of the men experienced a decrease in self-esteem while 16% were unhappy with their physical appearance. While few men (4%) availed themselves of support groups, 18% found the advice of other patients helpful in coping with their sexuality. The side effects were unexpected in nearly half (43%) of the men. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that prostate cancer treatment may be associated with psychosocial problems related to depression, anxiety, and self- esteem that impact sexual relationships. Although prospective validated questionnaires are needed to confirm these findings, better counseling through the disease trajectory may help combat these emotional issues. No significant financial relationships to disclose.