Sexual dysfunction and quality of life in prostate cancer.

Abstract

Prostate cancer causes changes, such as erectile dysfunction, with a significant impact on the perception of quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study is to identify changes in perception of QoL related to erectile dysfunction over time. A descriptive, analytical and longitudinal study was conducted with the participation of oncological patients from the ambulatory urology department of an oncology hospital unit of the North of Portugal. The sample, obtained through convenience non-probabilistic sampling between October 2015 and July 2016, included 60 patients. The instrument used for data collection was IIEF-5 (International Index of Erectile Function-5) that evaluates the severity degree of erectile dysfunction (ED). Sexual function did not present clinical or statistical differences along the studied period. Cultural issues related to privacy preservation may justify our sexual function scores. Early identification of QoL changes may guide nurses to patient-centered care.