1. ¹Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Duke Prostate Center, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, USA
2. ²Department of Urology, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA

Correspondence: Dr TJ Polascik, Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, DUMC 2804, Yellow Zone, Durham, NC 27710, USA. E-mail: polas001@mc.duke.edu

Received 5 February 2009; Revised 2 April 2009; Accepted 12 May 2009; Published online 11 June 2009.

Abstract

Although prostate cancer affects men, research shows effects on both members of the couple. We analyzed concordance in couples recovering from primary surgical treatment of prostate cancer when surveyed on psychological domains including emotional status, relationship, self-image, partnership quality and support. Retrospective Sexual Surveys were utilized to survey physiological changes as well as psychological effects. In total, 28 heterosexual couples (56 people) were enrolled. Patients were treated between February 2002 and March 2007 with a median follow-up of 26 (range: 4–59) months. When polled on psychological aspects that may have been affected by treatment, overall concordance was 75.0%. Partnership had the highest concordance (92.2%) with treatment satisfaction questions following in second (90.7%). Subcategories focused on self-image (77.5%), relationship (67.3%), support (66.4%) and emotional status (55.6%), were less concordant. Although couples report relationships as strong and team-like, misconception between partners is widespread. Further research with regards to the effect of such disparities in couples might provide additional insight into improving recovery.