Living with Early Prostate Cancer: Decisions and Outcomes
Abstract
To examine men's perceptions of life transitions associated with prostate cancer through an analysis of their narratives, obtained in in-depth, qualitative interviews; compare men's narratives of perceived transitions with respect to quality of life outcome states, i.e., good vs. poor prostate cancer-related quality of life. Phase 1: interview participants in our quality of life survey of previously treated patients, stratified by quality of life. Phase 2: interview members of our prospective cohort who have completed 36-month follow-up, stratified by quality of life states and observed changes in urinary, bowel, and sexual function. Phase 3: prospectively interview patients with new diagnoses of early prostate cancer prior to treatment and 12 months later. Comparative analyses, with comparisons between strata and the three cohorts, will characterize the structure and content of patients' narratives of prostate cancer, including specific changes in identity and interpersonal relationships, that are linked to quality of life outcomes. Interviews conducted so far include: Phase 1, 24; Phase 2, 25; Phase 3, 38. Survey instrument to identify quality of life strata in prospective cohort was completed by 235 of 269 eligible patients (87%). Analysis of completed interviews is in progress; no reportable findings as yet.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA431653
Entities
People
- Jack A. Clark
Organizations
- Boston University