by Koenraad Van Renterghem and Sam Ward for Urologic
Incontinence problems are often accompanied by sexual dysfunction in patients with prostate cancer. Incontinence and erectile dysfunction following prostate cancer treatment should therefore not be considered in isolation. Both conditions have a major impact on the quality of life of patients, their partners, and society as a whole. As there is an increasing focus on the importance of sexual health and quality of life following cancer treatment, now is the right time to emphasize integrated and timely care for these patients.
Introduction
Treatments for prostate cancer, such as radical prostatectomy and radiation therapy, have significantly improved patient survival rates. However, these advances are accompanied by significant (postoperative) side effects, such as (stress) incontinence and erectile dysfunction, which can seriously affect the quality of life of patients and their partners. An estimated 4% to 31% of patients suffer from stress incontinence, while erectile dysfunction occurs in 6% to 68% of men who have undergone treatment for prostate cancer. The importance of prompt treatment for both problems cannot be overstated, given the profound psychosocial and physical consequences for the patient and his loved ones.
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