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Review: psychosocial interventions addressing sexual or relationship functioning in men with prostate cancer
Katherine E Chisholm1, Marita P McCabe, Addie C Wootten
1School of Psychology, Deakin University, Burwood, Victoria, Australia.
Introduction:
Although previous research has evaluated the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions for men with prostate cancer, no previous review has investigated the effects of psychosocial interventions on both sexual and relationship functioning.
Aim:
To review the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions that focus on sexual and/or relationship functioning for men with prostate cancer and their partners.
Method:
A systematic literature review of research reported in the Medline, PsychINFO, PsychArticles databases from January 1990 to September 10, 2011.
Main Outcome Measure:
The review focused on the evaluation of interventions that aimed to improve the sexual and/or relationship functioning of men and their partners.
Results:
There was evidence that psychosocial interventions can improve men's sexual functioning, particularly when delivered face-to-face and when using more complex strategies to target sexuality in men and in relationships. There was inconclusive evidence for the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions in improving men's relationship functioning or the sexual or relationship functioning of their partners.
Conclusions:
There is a need for further research to target improving and measuring men and their partner's sexual and relationship functioning in the context of prostate cancer. The effectiveness of tailoring interventions to the specific needs of men and to their stage of cancer also needs to be further examined.
Insights
Psychosocial interventions show promise for improving sexual function in men with prostate cancer, especially when delivered face-to-face. Further research is needed to enhance relationship functioning for both patients and partners.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Psychology
- Sexual Health
Background:
- Previous research has explored psychosocial interventions for men with prostate cancer.
- No prior review has specifically examined the impact on both sexual and relationship functioning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions targeting sexual and/or relationship functioning in men with prostate cancer and their partners.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review was conducted using Medline, PsychINFO, and PsychArticles databases.
- Searches covered publications from January 1990 to September 2011.
- The review focused on interventions aimed at improving sexual and/or relationship functioning.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests psychosocial interventions can improve men's sexual functioning, particularly face-to-face interventions using complex strategies.
- Evidence regarding improvements in men's relationship functioning or partners' sexual/relationship functioning was inconclusive.
Conclusions:
- Further research is required to improve and measure sexual and relationship functioning for men with prostate cancer and their partners.
- Tailoring interventions to individual needs and cancer stage warrants further investigation.
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