New analysis of Europa Uomo’s study into partners’ quality of life

A new analysis of data from Europa Uomo's EU-ProPER study of prostate cancer partners and spouses clearly shows the significant impact that their partner's urinary function has on their quality of life.

Presenting the findings at Europa Uomo’s General Assembly and Masterclass in Helsinki, Finland, André Deschamps said the study showed that even among partners who reported the fewest quality of life issues, there are issues resulting from partner’s urinary function.

The EU-ProPER (Europa Uomo Prostate Cancer Partners in Europe Research) study, based on 1,135 responses to an online survey of prostate cancer partners, found that 49% reported that their partners had continence issues.

In the new analysis, the responses were divided into three groups – those who said they had few quality of life issues (46%), those who said they had moderate issues (30%) and those who said they had a lot of issues (23%).

“Even if you look at the group that has the least issues,” said André Deschamps, “there are issues with the urinary function of the partner. So that is a very important issue to try to solve in order to make sure the partner’s life is better.”

In the group with the most issues the influence of urinary function on their quality of life is significant, with leisure activities decreased and mental health and frustration issues coming into play.

He told delegates: “I think that’s an important thing to remember, if you do actions around partners in your countries, think about these things. These are the issues we need to give some help with.”