Welcome to the new VICS website!

New features make it even easier to learn about the VICS and how we can help you.

Read more

Understanding the needs of patients and their partners regarding sexual health intervention following prostate cancer treatment

Western & Central Melbourne

The WCMICS Grants Program 2021–22 funded a project to enhance patient engagement and care throughout the survivorship journey by addressing the decline in attendance rates of men seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction at Western Health’s sexual health clinic and improving their adherence to new treatment options.

While prostate cancer is a significant health concern in Victoria, the 5-year survival rate of 95% suggests that more patients are living with the side-effects of their treatment, particularly sexual dysfunction (SD) or erectile dysfunction (ED).

Patients were invited to participate in a survey via email, phone, or post plus a focus group session. The survey results were analysed to identify enablers and barriers to treatment for SD and ED to help design service improvement. Analysis of feedback from 75 patients’ surveys and one focus group, highlighted that a multidisciplinary approach is recommended to address ED. Common barriers affecting patients’ decisions to continue or discontinue ED treatment include cost, treatment efficacy, psychological impact, lack of partner support, unavailability of treatment options, external factors, and patient disinterest. Enabling factors for treatment continuation included strong partner support, perception of treatment efficacy, counselling, psychological support, and patient-centred care.

Needs of the older person

Engagement with ED treatment varies across age groups, with distinct themes influencing patients’ decisions to continue or discontinue treatment. Age influences patient preferences for educational programs, with younger patients prioritising sexual health and valuing in-person consultations.

Patients emphasised the value of the existing nurse led model to provide patient education and address misconceptions about ED and treatment options emphasising the importance of one-on-one consultations over telehealth and group sessions.

Addressing barriers and tailoring interventions for different age groups are essential to improve sexual function recovery. Fostering multidisciplinary collaboration and patient-centred care, where individual concerns and needs are addressed, is essential to enhance treatment uptake and adherence. Additionally, promoting public awareness can lead to better sexual health outcomes and improved overall wellbeing for prostate cancer survivors.