Concordance in the perception of couples recovering from primary surgical treatment of prostate cancer.

ABSTRACT

Although prostate cancer affects men, research shows effects on both members of the couple. We analyzed concordance in couples recovering from primary surgical treatment of prostate cancer when surveyed on psychological domains including emotional status, relationship, self-image, partnership quality and support. Retrospective Sexual Surveys were utilized to survey physiological changes as well as psychological effects. In total, 28 heterosexual couples (56 people) were enrolled. Patients were treated between February 2002 and March 2007 with a median follow-up of 26 (range 4-59) months. When polled on psychological aspects that may have been affected by treatment, overall concordance was 75.0%. Partnership had the highest concordance (92.2%) with treatment satisfaction questions following in second (90.7%). Subcategories focused on self-image (77.5%), relationship (67.3%), support (66.4%) and emotional status (55.6%), were less concordant. Although couples report relationships as strong and team-like, misconception between partners is widespread. Further research with regards to the effect of such disparities in couples might provide additional insight into improving recovery.