Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian men and it is estimated that in 2019 there will be 19,508 new cases of prostate cancer diagnosed in Australia. The risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer increases with age, peaking at age groups 65-69 and 70-74. From 1986 to 2015, the five year survival from prostate cancer improved from 59% to 95% indicating men are living longer following a prostate cancer diagnosis (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 2019).
This presentation will look at prostate cancer as a disease, treatment options and side effects, with a focus on the impact of urinary incontinence post prostate cancer treatment. Living with incontinence is a major source of emotional stress, which can affect a man’s social interactions and his sense of self-worth. It can be very debilitating, soul destroying and financially draining. It is vital that men are well counselled pre prostate cancer treatment regarding side effects and their possible impact on quality of life.
Managing incontinence following prostate cancer treatment with medication or behavioural techniques in conjunction with pelvic floor exercises can provide some benefit, but some men may have to look to surgical intervention in an attempt to improve their urinary control. Again, careful counselling and sound clinical judgment must be applied when determining an appropriate approach to managing urinary incontinence following treatment for prostate cancer.