Prostate-specific health-related quality of life and patient-physician communication - A 3.5-year follow-up.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to examine associations between prostate-specific health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and aspects of patient-physician communication in localized prostate cancer treatment.

METHODS

Data of patients with localized prostate cancer were collected at 6-month intervals over a 3.5-year period within a prospective, observational study (HAROW). Data collection comprised D'Amico risk categories, the Charlson Comorbidity Index, patient-physician communication (information, shared decision making, support, devotion), and prostate-specific HRQOL (incontinence aid, urinary symptoms, bowel symptoms, hormonal treatment-related symptoms, sexual functioning, sexual activity). Data of N = 1722 patients undergoing radical prostatectomy were analyzed by longitudinal multilevel analysis.

RESULTS

The mean patient age was 65 years; 31% had a low risk and 38% an intermediate risk of cancer growth and spread; 73% had a Charlson Comorbidity Index of 0. Significant associations were found between prostate-specific HRQOL and shared decision making, support and devotion. Patient information was not significantly associated with aspects of prostate-specific HRQOL.

CONCLUSION

Patient reported long term outcomes are associated with aspects of patient-physician communication in prostate cancer patients. Patients feeling involved by their urologists experience less side effects of (surgical) treatment.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Special communication training programmes should be developed and implemented for urologists.