Factors Influencing the Quality of Life of Prostate Cancer Patients

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to identify the effects of erectile capacity, lower urinary tract symptoms, self-esteem, and resilience on the quality of life of prostate cancer patients. METHODS: Data were collected using a self–reported questionnaire survey. Participants were 140 patients diagnosed and treated for prostate cancer in hospitals in Busan and Daegu cities. Measured variables were erectile capacity, lower urinary tract symptoms, self-esteem, resilience and quality of life. RESULT: Erectile capacity, lower urinary tract symptoms, self-esteem, and resilience all had significant effects on quality of life. Explained variance for quality of life was 40.6% and lower urinary tract symptoms was the most significant factor affecting the quality of life of prostate cancer patients. CONCLUSION: The results from this study suggest that erectile capacity, lower urinary tract symptoms, self-esteem, and resilience should be considered the main influential factors when developing intervention strategies to increase the quality of life of prostate cancer patients.