Treatments for early-stage prostate cancer (PCa) are highly effective; therefore, research studies that explore quality of life (QOL) issues associated with different treatments are important. The purposes of a study by Lev and coworkers were to (a) examine differences among treatment groups of men treated with either radiation therapies or radical prostatectomy for PCa and (b) examine quality of life outcomes over time. The investigation explored outcomes 6 and 12 months after 159 men began treatment for PCa with either one of two types of radiation treatment: (a) (intensity-modulated radiation therapy plus high dose rate or intensity-modulated radiation therapy plus seed implantation); or (b) radical prostatectomy. Significant differences among groups were described. Significant predictors of QOL at 6 months included urinary, bowel, sexual symptoms, anxiety, depression, problem-focused coping, and physiological self-efficacy. Significant predictors of QOL at 12 months were urinary and bowel symptoms, stress, depression, problem-focused coping, and physiological self-efficacy. Demographic variables, race, and living status were significant predictors of quality of life at 12 months.

WHAT THE STUDY MAY MEAN TO YOU AS A HEALTH CARE PROVIDER: The authors concluded that physiological symptoms and psychological symptoms were both significant predictors of QOL. The psychological factors that predicted quality of life in this study have potential for intervention and point to the next stage of the research.

WHAT THE STUDY MAY MEAN TO YOU AS A PATIENT: It appears, as least with respect to the two treatments investigated in the study, they should be augmented with the teaching of coping and problem solving skills. These techniques could be taught under the umbrella of a self-management program. Such instruction is a major point stressed by the authors of the study.

EL Lev et al. Quality of life of men treated for localized prostate cancer: outcomes at 6 and 12 months. Support Care Cancer, August 22, 2008.