Survey explores effects of prostate cancer on intimacy

Many prostate cancer patients and their partners are unprepared for the impact of treatment on their sexual function, according to new research funded by the Irish Cancer Society.

Around 4,000 men are diagnosed here each year with the cancer, which means about one in seven men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime.

The survey involved 1,150 patients and partners.

It reveals how prostate cancer affects intimacy, mental health and quality of life for both patients and their partners.

It found that 40% of respondents said they were unprepared for the impact of the treatment on their sexual function.

It showed that 60% said the impact of treatment on sexual function was worse or much worse than expected.

The vast majority of prostate cancer patients said that a longer or clearer discussion with their medical team or doctor would have helped them to be more prepared for the impact of treatment on their sexual function.

Patients with prostate cancer are living longer and survival rates are improving.

The ICS said the findings of its survey mean that there is a need to look at quality of life for patients with prostate cancer.