Editing Patient Pathways: Prostate Cancer (section)

= Supportive activities for patients suffered from prostate cancer during the course =

Supportive measures implemented by medical centers and non-governmental organizations play a key role in the overall process of treatment and recovery of prostate cancer patients. While medical centers provide professional medical care and therapies, non-governmental organizations provide emotional, psychological and practical support that is equally important for the well-being of patients.

These complementary measures ensure a holistic approach to treatment, helping patients to cope with the challenges of the disease and improve their quality of life. The implementation of supportive activities can significantly improve the quality of life of prostate cancer patients during treatment, allowing them to have better control over their health and sense of well-being.

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== Supportive activities provided by health care institutions ==

'''Urological problems:''' urologists and physiotherapists help control incontinence.

'''Fatigue:''' nutritionists and physiotherapists help manage fatigue through tailored diet and exercise.

'''Psychological counseling:''' providing support from psychologists who help patients cope with anxiety, depression and stress related to the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer.

'''Nutritional counseling:''' individual nutrition plans adapted to the needs of patients, which helps to maintain health during treatment and reduce side effects.

'''Informing patients:''' distribution of educational materials and brochures about prostate cancer.

'''Physiotherapy:''' programs for rehabilitation and restoration of physical function after surgery or therapy.

'''Medications to control side effects:''' Medicines to reduce side effects such as nausea, fatigue and pain.

'''Erectile dysfunction:''' Counseling and treatments by sexual health specialists.

'''Pain specialist:''' postoperative pain control.

'''Erectile dysfunction:''' Counseling and treatments by sexual health specialists.

'''Pharmacological treatment of erectile dysfunction after the procedure:''' The first line of treatment is phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5I) inhibitors. Unfortunately, only about 12-17% of men will respond to these medications in the first six months after surgery.

Despite nerve-sparing surgical techniques, oral medications are generally ineffective early after surgery because cavernous nerves are injured intraoperatively and sometimes take 24 months to heal.

'''Surgical installation of a penile prosthesis''' may be considered in patients who are unsuitable for various pharmacotherapies or prefer definitive therapy.

Although there are effective treatments for erectile dysfunction, many men avoid seeking medical attention for this condition. In men with prostate cancer, only 50% of men were interested in seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction and actually took steps to find treatment. Furthermore, there are very high dropout rates among those who seek help in the treatment of this condition. Considering the importance of penile rehabilitation after radical prostatectomy, difficulties in initiating and maintaining treatment could have a negative effect on men’s ability to regain an erection after the procedure.

'''Regular inspections:''' continuous monitoring of the patient’s condition after treatment for early detection of possible cancer return.

'''Management of chronic conditions:''' therapies to manage long-term side effects and comorbidities.

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== Supporting activities provided by associations ==

Patient associations play a key supporting role in the therapeutic and rehabilitation path of patients with prostate cancer. Patient associations can organize:

'''Support groups:''' groups where patients can share their experiences and receive emotional support.

'''Family counseling:''' to better understand and support the patient.

The availability of reliable and comprehensible information that is necessary for the patient to take an active role in his treatment and healing process and to make informed decisions about therapeutic steps. Associations can provide online resources to educate patients about the diagnosis process and treatment options.

'''Legal help:''' counseling on patients’ rights, assistance in accessing health services and legal assistance regarding labor rights.

'''Financial and logistical assistance:''' assistance in finding financial resources to cover treatment costs and assistance in organizing patients’ trips to therapy appointments.

'''Educational workshops:''' workshops for patients and their families on disease management and treatments.

'''Counseling programs''' for the organization of work and the involvement of employers in the process of patient reintegration into the working environment.

'''Education''' about a healthy lifestyle, prevention of relapse and management of long-term side effects of treatment.

'''Organization of social activities:''' events and activities for social integration and support for prostate cancer survivors.

'''Information campaigns:''' raising awareness of the importance of regular examinations and a healthy lifestyle for the prevention of relapse.

These supportive activities help prostate cancer patients face challenges throughout their treatment journey, improving their quality of life and increasing their chances of a successful recovery.

'''Consultation with a nutritionist:''' development of customized nutritional plans that support health during treatment.

'''Food workshops:''' education about the importance of proper nutrition during prostate cancer treatment.

'''Organizing workshops for the benefit of patients:''' yoga and meditation, programs to reduce anxiety and improve emotional stability.

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