Changes in the quality of life of a population of Polish men undergoing radical prostatectomy: a 12-month longitudinal observational study.

Abstract

Introduction: In the literature on cancer treatment, there is growing interest in quality of life (QoL). Improvement in QoL is coming to be regarded as a key consideration in maintaining standards of care. The choice of medical intervention should be based not only on a patient's physical health, test results, and the stage of the disease, but also on their emotional and psychosocial condition.

Material and methods: The study included a group of 72 men with prostate cancer scheduled for radical prostatectomy (RP). QoL was assessed using standardised and validated questionnaires. The survey was conducted before surgery and then after 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

Results: Analysis of changes in QoL 3 months after surgery showed a significant decrease in all symptomatic and functional domains, the largest decrease being observed in social functioning. One year after surgery, most scores had returned to their preoperative level, with the exception of those for social functioning, symptoms of pain, insomnia, and financial difficulties. It was noted that preoperative urinary symptom scale scores were significantly lower than those obtained one year after RP, the largest difference being apparent in the first months after surgery. It was also found that the number of people using incontinence precautions significantly increased 3 months after surgery and continued to do so.

Conclusions: The greatest deterioration of QoL occurs in the first months after surgery and mainly affects social, emotional, and sexual functioning, as well as symptoms related to incontinence and fatigue.