Supportive medications and interventions received by prostate cancer survivors: results from the PiCTure study

Abstract

Prostate cancer treatments are associated with various physical after-e ects, including urinary, sexual, and bowel symptoms.1 ese after-e ects can have an impact on survivors’ healthrelated quality of life (HRQoL).2 Pharmaceutical and surgical interventions are available to manage or ameliorate many of these after-e ects (eg, sildena…l citrate taken during and after radiotherapy improves sexual function),3 and their receipt has a positive impact on HRQoL.4 However, studies of clinicians suggest that such interventions may not be used widely.5,6 Patientreported data on this topic is lacking. erefore, we investigated the use of supportive medications and interventions in this population-based study of prostate cancer survivors. Methods e PiCTure (Prostate Cancer Treatment, Your Experience) study methods have been described elsewhere.7 BrieŽy, 6,559 prostate cancer survivors 2-15 years after diagnosis (diagnosed during January 1, 1995-March 31, 2010, and alive in November 2011), identi…ed from population-based cancer registries in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, were invited to complete a postal survey. Information was sought on after-e ects (incontinence, impotence, gynaecomastia, hot Žashes/sweats, bowel problems, depression) that had been experienced at any time after treatment. For each after-e ect, men were asked if they had received any medication or interventions to alleviate symptoms, and, if so, what they had received; examples of common interven-