Prostate cancer is the leading form of cancer diagnosed among North American men. Most patients present with localized disease, which can be effectively treated with a variety of different modalities. These are associated with widely different acute and late effects, which can be both physical and psychological in nature. Health related quality of life (HRQOL) concerns are therefore important for these patients for selecting between the various treatment options.

117 patients with localized prostate cancer were invited to participate in a quality of life assessment self reported survey. 111 patients consented and participated in the survey, one year after completion of their treatment. 88 patients received EBRT and 23 received EBRT and HDRBT. Quality of life (QOL) was compared in the two groups, by using a modified version of Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Prostate (FACT-P) survey instrument.

One year after completion of treatment, there was no significant difference in overall quality of life between patients who received EBRT alone and those who received a combination of EBRT and HDRBT. For each component of the modified FACT-P survey, i.e. physical, social/family, emotional, and functional well-being; there were no statistically significant differences in the mean scores between these two groups.

This small study shows that there is no significant difference in quality of life at one year post-treatment, in patients treated with EBRT alone versus combined EBRT and HDRBT.

Written by
Joseph KJ, Alvi R, Skarsgard D, Tonita J, Pervez N, Tai P, Small C.

Reference
Radiat Oncol. 2008 Jul 15;3(1):20.
doi:10.1186/1748-717X-3-20

PubMed Abstract
PMID:18627617

UroToday.com Prostate Cancer Section

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