Adequacy of sexual care information given to prostate cancer patients receiving radical external beam radiotherapy

Abstract

Background: Despite the acknowledged value of providing prostate radiotherapy patients with sexual dysfunction (SD) information, there is little evidence related to patient perceptions of this or the extent to which information is provided to them. This study aimed to critically evaluate the quality and format of SD information given to patients before, during and after radical EBRT to treat prostate cancer. Method: Members of UK prostate cancer support groups were asked to complete an anonymous online survey tool seeking opinions of the SD information they were given before, during and after external beam radiotherapy (EBRT). Results: There were 56 responses to the survey with over 42% of respondents reporting that they had not received any SD information. Of those who did, 78·1% (25/32) received information before the start of EBRT. Physicians were the most involved in the provision of SD information, with nurses and therapeutic radiographers being underutilised. Responses were mostly negative, or neutral regarding the quality of SD information and the information received about impact on relationships, psychological and emotional health. Many participants wanted more information and support. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that prostate cancer patients who have undergone radical EBRT have not received adequate information relating to potential sexual function side effects and the psychological and emotional effects of SD. This information should be included in verbal and written information provided at all stages of the radiotherapy pathway.

Impact of patient information format on the experience of cancer patients treated with radiotherapy

“…This has left them uninformed and insufficiently prepared for the SE of RT, particularly among gynaecological patients [27] , [62] . While several studies have focused on refining the RT pathway for prostate cancer patients [34] , [46] , [60] , [64] , evidence suggested a lack of awareness regarding the psychological and emotional impact of SDF resulting from RT [42] .…”

“…A recent study highlighted how a digital health information tool provided tailored digital information to complement interpersonal communication, serving as a motivator for breast cancer patients [42] . Beyond providing patients information to enhance their knowledge, offering feedback on the knowledge they have acquired about RT can also be a motivating factor [71] .…”

“…It could be assumed that patients are overloaded with information, at a time of heightened anxiety, fear, or depression, yet studies have shown that most patients want to have more information than they receive [11] , [14] , [37] , [42] , [57] . However if giving patients all the information we think they need, it is also essential to consider how this is best delivered to ensure they can comprehend it without being detrimental to understanding their care.…”