Prostate cancer patients’ wellbeing shortly after diagnosis in a population diagnosed during a year

Abstract Background Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in developed countries and the incidence is increasing. Most prostate cancers are detected localized, the prognosis is good, and men live for many years after the diagnosis. However, their wellbeing and quality of life (QOL) outcomes are impaired by the cancer and the negative side effects of treatment, of which we received up-to-date information. Methods We conducted a postal survey for prostate cancer patients diagnosed during one year at the Pirkanmaa and Etelä-Pohjanmaa wellbeing service areas Finland (n = 973) to study the patients’ wellbeing a few months after diagnosis. The patients’ experiences of care and negative effects of treatment was asked, and their wellbeing/QOL measured with validated instruments. Predictors of various wellbeing/QOL indicators were investigated. Results Respondents (n = 605) were on average 71 years old (SD 8.14, range 50-93); 78% were married or cohabiting; 17% was divorced or widowed, 42% had a college or university education; and 78% had retired. At diagnosis, 51% had received completely enough information on the disease, 63% on treatment options, and 45% on treatment side-effects; complete information decreased psychological symptoms (p < 0.001). 24% would have wanted more information. Uncertainty about the future (by 41%), relief that the symptom cause was found (20%), and fear of disability (4%) predicted level of depressive symptoms (p < 0.05) and psychological symptoms (p < 0.01). Most support was received from the spouse 62% and children 35%, and 78% reported that their partnership was improved. Exercise increased overall wellbeing/health while resting and organizing things decreased it and increased psychological symptoms (p < 0.01). Results are preliminary (n = 327). Conclusions The patients had unmet information needs, but support was commonly received from the loved ones. Some psychological responses, and cancer induced behavior had harmful impact on the patients’ wellbeing. Key messages • Prostate cancer patients’ unmet information needs at diagnosis should be addressed in clinical work. • Patients’ psychological and behavioral response to their prostate cancer needs attention in their care.