Quality of Life: Radical Prostatectomy Versus Radiation Therapy for Prostate Cancer

PURPOSE: The impact of radical prostatectomy and external beam radiotherapy on the quality of life of patients was compared. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 136 patients underwent radical prostatectomy and 60 underwent external beam radiotherapy for clinically localized prostate cancer. Patients were asked to complete a questionnaire containing The Functional Living Index: Cancer, the Profile of Moods States, and a series of questions evaluating bladder, bowel and sexual function. RESULTS: The radical prostatectomy group had worse sexual function and urinary incontinence, while the external beam radiotherapy group had worse bowel function. Of the patients 90% from both groups stated that they would undergo the treatment again. CONCLUSIONS: Radical prostatectomy and external beam radiotherapy have comparable impact upon quality of life.