Editing Patient Pathways: Prostate Cancer (section)

== Challenges during treatment ==

'''Physical complaints'''

'''Urological problems:''' Many patients experience urinary problems, including incontinence (uncontrollable urination) or frequent urination, especially after surgery or radiation.

'''Sexual dysfunction:''' Erectile dysfunction is a common side effect of prostate cancer treatment, whether it is surgery, radiation or hormone therapy.

'''Fatigue:''' Radiation, chemotherapy and hormone therapy can cause extreme fatigue and exhaustion.

'''Pain and discomfort:''' Pain in the pelvis or lower back can be present due to the disease itself or as a side effect of treatment.

'''Changes in weight:''' Hormone therapy can cause weight gain or loss of muscle mass.

'''Psychological problems'''

'''Depression and anxiety:''' Coping with a cancer diagnosis and the side effects of treatment can cause significant emotional and psychological problems.

'''Fear of relapse:''' The constant fear of the cancer returning can be emotionally draining.

'''Family relations:''' Changes in family roles and responsibilities due to illness can cause stress and tension in the family.

'''Isolation:''' Physical and emotional symptoms can lead to social isolation and feelings of loneliness.

'''Financial and professional problems'''

'''High costs of medicines, therapies and medical procedures''' they can represent a financial burden.

Due to inability to work or reduced work capacity, many patients may experience loss of income.

'''Lack of information'''

The need to understand complex medical information and make informed decisions. Difficulties in making treatment decisions due to lack of reliable and comprehensible information or conflicting advice.

'''Ignorance of patients’ rights.'''

Lack of information about medical care providers during treatment.

<span id="challenges-during-rehabilitation-and-disease-monitoring"></span>