Purpose:
An international panel developed the Guideline for Sexual Health Care for Prostate Cancer to provide clinicians , patients, and their partners with a comprehensive understanding of the biopsychosocial impact of prostate cancer treatments. This Guideline offers a framework for assessing and managing the sexual consequences of prostate cancer therapies and promotes a patient and partner centred approach to care . While the guideline serves as a valuable tool for psychologists addressing sexual concerns , its integration into healthcare systems in low - and middle -income countries (LMICs) remains limited.
Methods:
A Multidisciplinary team of experts conducted systemic review of peer reviewed literature focusing on impact of prostate cancer on sexual health , methods for assessing sexual dysfunction and evidence -based interventions for addressing sexual sequelae in prostate cancer survivorship. The oral presentation will highlight aspects of the guideline , such as counseling on effects of treatment modalities, assessment and management of sexual distress.
Results:
The guideline resulted in 46 key evidence based statements to inform sexual healthcare experts in prostate cancer survivorship. Key themes includes:
1. Counseling men and their partners on psychological and emotional impact of cancer related sexual dysfunction. addressing issues such as loss, anxiety, grief and relationship strain.
2. Educating patients and partners about specific physiological effects of prostate cancer therapies .
Conclusion:
Extensive evidence documents the profound impact on treatment in sexual functioning. This presentation will advocate for mainstreaming the guidelines into standard prostate cancer care in LMICs to bridge gaps in Psychosexual support, improve quality of life for patients and partners and foster a more inclusive and informed approach to survivorship care.