A national survey found that 62% of men with prostate cancer reported moderate-to-high unmet needs, with significantly worse health status in active versus remitted disease (mean difference -11).
Cross-Sectional (n=313)
Yes
A large proportion of men with prostate cancer and their carers experience significant unmet supportive and palliative care needs, highlighting the necessity for integrated, person-centered care.
Effect estimate: mean difference -11 (95% CI -17 to -5)
p-value: p=<0.001
OBJECTIVES: Men living with prostate cancer have supportive and palliative needs. However, few studies detail unmet needs (vs quality of life measurement) or include data from those with advanced disease. We aimed to identify unmet needs of people living with prostate cancer (men, family carers), including those with advanced disease. METHODS: Mixed-methods national survey (patient Supportive Care Needs Survey; Carer Support Needs Assessment Tool) and health status (EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale). Quantitative data were explored using regression analysis. Free text data were subjected to thematic analysis. RESULTS: 216 men (mean age 65±8.5 years; active cancer 136 63%) and 97 carers (68 (70%) spouse/partner) provided data. 133 men (62%) reported moderate-to-high need which was more likely in advanced disease. Men's health status was worse with active vs remitted disease (mean difference -11; 95% CI -17 to -5; p<0.001). 85 (88%) carers reported at least one unmet need relating to 'enabling them to care' and 83 (86%) relating to 'their own well-being'. Carers with chronic illnesses had more unmet needs (p=0.01 to p=0.04) and patient receipt of palliative care independently predicted higher unmet carer needs (p=0.02).Free text data demonstrated widespread burden with: (1) poor communication/information, including about palliative care; (2) poorly managed symptoms/concerns and (3) poor care co-ordination. Incontinence, sexual dysfunction and hormone side-effects were serious problems, often left unaddressed. CONCLUSIONS: Many living with prostate cancer continue with wide-ranging concerns. Lack of systematic, ongoing needs assessment and poor communication compound inadequate clinical pathways. Person-centred care, interdisciplinary working and integrated palliative care should be resourced.
Johnson et al. (Thu,) conducted a cross-sectional in Prostate cancer (n=313). Active disease vs. Remitted disease was evaluated on Health status (EuroQol Visual Analogue Scale) (mean difference -11, 95% CI -17 to -5, p=<0.001). A national survey found that 62% of men with prostate cancer reported moderate-to-high unmet needs, with significantly worse health status in active versus remitted disease (mean difference -11).