INTRODUCTION: Some data exist on information and decision-making preferences of elderly prostate cancer patients but little is known about whether communication needs are being met in urological practice.
Therefore, it was the aim of this study to examine the information and shared decision-making experiences of prostate cancer patients over 75 years old.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: The HAROW (hormonal therapy, active surveillance, radiation, operation and watchful waiting) study is a prospective, observational study designed to collect clinical data and patient reported outcome of different treatment options for patients newly diagnosed with localized prostate cancer under real conditions. At 6-month intervals general clinical data, PROs (e.g. quality of life, quality of physician-patient interaction) and individual costs are documented. Data from 2,482 patients at 4 time points from T0 (initial diagnosis) to T3 (24 months follow-up) were analyzed.
RESULTS: T-tests and χ2-tests revealed no significant differences in terms of shared decision-making and information to different treatment options between patients aged over 75 years old and the rest of the sample. Regarding information on self-help groups, rehabilitation options and a second medical opinion, there were significant differences between prostate cancer patient age groups: patients aged over 75 years old received less information on these aspects at all points in time.
CONCLUSION: Patients at all ages feel activated by urologists and are informed about different treatment options. However, there is room for improvement in terms of informing especially elderly prostate cancer patients about rehabilitation, second medical opinions and self-help groups. Special information tools and decision aids for prostate cancer patients aged over 75years old should be developed and implemented to meet the specific information needs.
Written by:
Ernstmann N, Jaeger J, Kowalski C, Pfaff H, Weißbach L. Are you the author?
Institut für Medizinsoziologie, Versorgungsforschung und Rehabilitationswissenschaft, Universität zu Köln (IMVR), Eupener Straße 129, 50933, Köln, Deutschland.
Reference: Urologe A. 2013 Jan 19. Epub ahead of print.
doi: 10.1007/s00120-012-3071-7
PubMed Abstract
PMID: 23328778
Article in German.
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