Communication and Support

Abstract

Hanly et al., [1] although a moderate quality paper [2], did highlight other themes that need to be included in this systematic review [1] (n = 21). The themes of communication, between patient and partner, and also between health care professional and patient. The study can allow psychosexual issues to be identified and treated sooner. As part of the study, a peer support network e.g. prostate support group was central in managing psychosexual concerns (Level 2b, recommendation B). This has been previously demonstrated as an important part of prostate cancer survivorship care [3, 4]. Without this, patients may not be forthcoming about psychosexual concerns—this allows patients to be more open and forthcoming about their problems.

Hanly et al. [1] although a moderate quality paper [2], did highlight other themes that need to be included in this systematic review [1] (n = 21). The themes of communication, between patient and partner, and also between health care professional and patient. The study can allow psychosexual issues to be identified and treated sooner. As part of the study, a peer support network e.g. prostate support group was central in managing psychosexual concerns (Level 2b, recommendation B). This has been previously demonstrated as an important part of prostate cancer survivorship care [3, 4]. Without this, patients may not be forthcoming about psychosexual concerns—this allows patients to be more open and forthcoming about their problems.

In other cohort study, counselling Canada et al. [5] (n = 102) lead to improvement in psychosexual concerns and increased utilization of medical therapy. The study demonstrates the positive impact of good communication on the cohort (Level 2b, recommendation C) [5].