Letter to the Editor: Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

Dear Editor,

This Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, Cancer Council is calling on men affected by the disease to take part in a global study assessing the sexual health concerns of survivors.

Research shows one-third of all men diagnosed with prostate cancer have unmet sexuality and sexual health needs following treatment.

Specifically, rates of erectile dysfunction in prostate cancer survivors are 10 to 15 times higher than their age-matched peers without cancer.

The Men and Sexual Health Prostate Cancer Study is a joint Cancer Council Queensland and Griffith University project.

The study is the first of its kind to assess masculinity, concerns about sexual health and what contributes to a man’s decision to seek support for their sexual concerns.

To date, there is little research to help us understand men’s concerns about their sexual health after prostate cancer, and how they prefer to address these concerns.

We’re asking for men, anywhere in the world, who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer to take part in our online survey.

The results will provide new information about men’s decisions to seek help for impacts on their sexual function, satisfaction, and quality of life after prostate cancer treatment.

From here, we can tailor follow-up treatment, support and resources to help men address their sexual concerns.

Men, anywhere in the world, who have been diagnosed with prostate cancer can take part in the survey via menandprostatecancer.org.

Around 4000 Queensland men are diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, and about 650 men die from the disease.

More information about Cancer Council Queensland is available via 13 11 20 or cancerqld.org.au.

Professor Jeff Dunn AO
CEO Cancer Council Queensland

ENDS


For more information or interviews, please contact:
Katie Clift,
Executive Manager,
Media and Spokesperson,
Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5372
Mobile: 0409 001 171