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Abstract:

What are the psychosocial needs of men with prostate cancer and their partners? What kind of support do they receive? These questions were explored in a first interview study with 236 patients and 119 partners within 5 Flemish hospitals. In line with the international literature, this study identified 7 needs: emotional, information, physical, social, existential and functional needs, as well as needs related to care. A second study systematically examined to what extent each of these 7 needs are experienced by the patients and their partners. A written questionnaire was completed by 193 patients, 134 partners and 19 physicians. The studies reveal that the emotional needs of men with prostate cancer and their partners are often unrecognized and that customized information is needed with for instance a clear, timely and refined communication about the side effects. Furthermore, it is important to use positive elements in the relationship with the partner as an incentive for resilience among patients and their partners. Finally, it is essential to extend the basic psychosocial support with emotional and social guidance and to acknowledge the psychosocial role of other care providers, such as nurses at home and physiotherapists.