Couples' experiences with prostate cancer: focus group research

Area of Science:

• Oncology Nursing
• Psycho-oncology
• Qualitative Health Research

Background:

• Prostate cancer affects not only patients but also their partners.
• Understanding the dyadic experience is crucial for comprehensive care.
• Limited research explores the lived experiences of couples navigating prostate cancer together.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the experiences of couples coping with prostate cancer.
• To examine the illness's impact on quality of life and symptom management.
• To identify needs for interventions to improve daily life for patients and caregivers.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive qualitative design utilizing six focus groups.
• Groups included patients with prostate cancer, spouse-caregivers, and dyads.
• Data from 42 participants (22 men, 20 spouse-caregivers) were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Four key themes emerged: enduring uncertainty, managing treatment effects, adapting to changes, and unmet needs for support.
• Patients and caregivers felt unprepared for treatment side effects.
• Prostate cancer symptoms impacted the entire couple, not just the patient.

Conclusions:

• Couples require enhanced information and support systems.
• Joint discussions involving patients and partners are vital for managing illness and treatment effects.
• Interventions should address the holistic needs of both individuals within the couple.