Following treatment for prostate cancer, changes in quality of life will differ by age, as will the patient’s reaction to those changes. Miami urologist Dr. George Suarez finds that while older and younger men start with a different standard quality of life function, older men are typically less bothered by certain deteriorations that may affect younger patients more.
Prostate cancer is the most widespread malignancy diagnosed in men of all ages in the country and about 60 percent of new cases are found in men over the age of 65. Older men are often diagnosed with more aggressive forms of the disease and are less likely to get treatment, partly because they’re concerned about the impact on their sexual performance and urinary function.
According to your Miami urologist, controlling quality of life priorities is important to make sure that patients make well-informed treatment decisions.
In a recent study, researchers studied national data on over 5,300 males who had been diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer that had not spread between 1999 and 2013. The men received treatments such as surgery and active surveillance.
Prior to treatment, and then again two years later, the men completed surveys that included questions regarding their quality of life pertaining to their urological functioning and symptoms.
Overall, men over the age of 70 had a poorer quality of life after treatment than those under the age of 60, except in terms of mental health. The younger men, however, were more troubled by declines in their quality of life. Quality of life is a vital consideration when considering treatment options for prostate cancer, and urologists can assist patients in making the best decisions.
The most critical question is whether the cancer requires treatment because many prostate cancers can be safely monitored using active surveillance. Your Miami urologist advises that treatment should not be put off for older men due to quality of life concerns, just as younger patients also need to be educated about any potential changes in their quality of life following treatment.
Sexual and urinary problems are the most common following prostate cancer treatment, so it’s important to discuss possible side effects associated with various treatment options.
If you are interested in more information regarding prostate cancer treatment Miami residents rely on the expert care of Dr. George Suarez. Don’t hesitate – call our office today to schedule a confidential consultation.
