Urology Medical News about sexual function;clinically localized prostate cancer;definitive radiotherapy

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Prospective survey of sexual function among patients with clinically localized prostate cancer referred for definitive radiotherapy and the impact of radiotherapy on sexual function
Supportive Care in Cancer, 06/15/09

Choo R et al. – Study reports that among patients with clinically localized prostate cancer referred for radiotherapy, sexual dysfunction was prevalent; with 35.9% reporting erectile dysfunction (ED) at presentation. Radiotherapy adversely affected all aspects of sexual function.

Methods

Purpose of this study was to:
- assess sexual function among pts with clinically localized PCa referred for radiotherapy and
- prospectively evaluate the effect of radiotherapy on sexual function, using the Brief Sexual Function Inventory (BSFI)
At baseline, pts were asked to complete a self-administered BSFI
Pts with normal erection at baseline were asked to complete a follow-up BSFI at 6, 12, and 24 mo postradiotherapy

Results

117 eligible pts; mean age: 66 yrs; 42 pts (35.9%) had ED at baseline:
- These pts were older
- More likely on one or more medications affecting potency
- Had lower mean score for all the 5 domains of BSFI and
- Considered sexual activity less important
61/75 pts reporting normal erectile function at baseline, completed a f/u BSFI questionnaire:
- 52 underwent radiotherapy with external beam radiotherapy or brachytherapy
- Mean scores for all the BSFI domains declined after radiotherapy
  suggesting that radiotherapy adversely affected not only erectile function but also other aspects of sexual function including sexual drive and ejaculation