Impact on you
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Diagnosis and treatment.
Have you recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer? This video is for you! When it comes to cancer, it pays to know the facts. Let’s take a closer look.
Your emotions
The psychological impact of the disease
Few things are as difficult as learning that you have cancer. The word itself casts a chilling shadow, as does the knowledge of the side effects and complications from treatment.
Much like the impact of breast cancer, the psychological effects of prostate cancer are deeply troubling to the sufferer. Prostate cancer touches a very sensitive place in the male psyche. For one thing, a man’s physical integrity is threatened by the risk of erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence brought about by treatment. But even more profoundly, the disease troubles a man’s very perception of himself, his body, his sexuality and his intimate relationships.
For a younger man – A man of 82 who develops prostate cancer does not go through the same thing as a man of 49 who is still sexually virile and able to reproduce. Not only does the latter fear dying young, he also worries about losing his sexual powers. He might feel that “it’s all over,” that he is “no longer a man” and that his partner will abandon him. Most men in this age bracket are ready to do anything to cure the disease and will undergo the most aggressive treatment available.
For an older man – Older men tend to react differently. Generally less sexually active, these men may find it a little easier to accept having their prostate removed or losing the ability to achieve erections. On the other hand, they may have more trouble dealing with treatment side effects like urinary incontinence and be less willing to spend a great deal of time in hospital. They might therefore choose to undergo treatments with “milder” side effects.
The person hearing this terrifying news knows that life will never be the same, and emotions can range from denial to anger, despair to hope, and courage to fear, for both the patient and his or her loved ones. All of this is completely normal.
What you can feel
People who have cancer often experience a high level of stress that they may find difficult to deal with. There are so many unknown factors and so many questions to ask. What effects will the treatments have on me? Am I going to get better?
When you learn you have cancer
When you’re told you have cancer, it’s natural to react in one of these ways:
- experiencing a sense of “shock”
- not believing the diagnosis, especially if you haven’t had any symptoms
- feeling angry
- feeling that the situation is so unfair
- having no reaction or just a mild reaction for a while
Many men also:
- feel they’ve lost control of their lives
- are afraid their body and self-image will change
- feel powerless, sad, guilty
- have a sense of lost masculinity
- worry about their family, work or financial situation
- worry about their relationship, their quality of life, their sexual life
These reactions reveal what you’re feeling inside. Pay close attention to your reactions. They will show you how you need to take care of yourself, reach out to your support system and find a new life balance.
Stages that can be difficult
Certain stages can be especially difficult:
- waiting for medical tests
- receiving test results
- discussing treatment options
- experiencing side effects
- finishing your treatment and resuming an active life
- coping with a reccurence
- accepting the end of life
Recognizing the signs
Forms of distress you may feel
Each person experiences the disease and treatments in a different way. Some people have strong reactions and experience psychological distress. This may take the form of:
- physical signs: these may be unconnected to the disease or treatments, e.g. stomach ache, headache, loss of appetite, insomnia (difficulty to sleep), muscle tension, fatigue, trouble concentrating, etc.
- unusual behaviours: losing interest in activities you normally enjoy, being irritable and aggressive, avoiding family and friends, being completely disorganized, etc.
- false beliefs: for example, -telling yourself “It’s my own fault I have cancer” or “I deserve this” or “I should stay home and not see anyone to avoid infection.”
- intense emotions: frequent bouts of crying, extreme anxiety or anger, etc.
Watch for signs of distress. These signs can become a concern if:
- they are intense
- they continue for a long time
- they affect your everyday tasks; e.g. you can’t stop crying, can’t sleep, you avoid seeing others for fear of catching an infection…
If you’ve had psychological issues in the past, such as depression, tell your doctor. If you think you need help, don’t wait – talk to a care team member. It may be helpful to see a psychologist.
In fact, approximately 40 to 50 percent of men with prostate cancer require some type of psychosocial intervention at some point during their illness. By getting help promptly, you’ll feel better psychologically and adjust more easily to the situation.
If you have pervasive thoughts of death or suicidal ideas, don’t delay – see a psychologist right away or go to the emergency room at the nearest hospital.
Who can help
It is well-known that men are less likely than women to consult a professional for psychological problems. Men are generally less willing to open up and some even believe that it is not “manly” to share their most intimate feelings with a professional. Unfortunately, this attitude does not usually change with age.
Not all men with prostate cancer need professional psychosocial support. Indeed, about 55 to 60 percent of patients never consult. However, those who do feel the need for such support should not let their shyness or pride stop them from picking up the phone and making an appointment. It could make a huge difference in their quality of life, both during and after treatment.
You can obtain help from several sources at once, or first from one and then another professional.
Psychiatrist
The psychiatrist is a medical specialist who can diagnose psychosocial problems, evaluate underlying physical disorders and prescribe medication. The psychiatrist can also treat patients for pain. A psychiatrist can help you physically as well as psychologically.
Psychologist
The psychologist on the oncology team evaluates the psychological impact of cancer on patients and their support circle. Your psychologist will listen as you express your distress. He or she will look at your history, lifestyle, and plans, trying to ease your suffering and help you find ways of coping. Feel free to see the psychologist at any stage of your treatment and follow-up.
Sex therapist
A sex therapist can help the patient and the couple overcome physical problems or learn how to live with them. For example, the sex therapist provides guidance if the man is unable to achieve erections naturally and the couple is learning how to integrate a medical treatment (oral medication, MUSE or any other type of treatment) into their sex life. The therapist also helps the couple explore other facets of their sexuality and new ways of expressing their love for each other.
Sexuality can take a number of forms and still be fulfilling for both partners, as long as it remains a way for the couple to communicate and express their shared happiness. If the man is undergoing hormone therapy and has therefore lost his sex drive, the sex therapist helps the patient and the couple deal with the situation to prevent suffering, depression and guilt.
Social worker
The role of the social worker is to promote the social functioning of the patient. The social worker works with the patient and his family. He or she may also assist the patient with procedures for obtaining financial assistance required during cancer treatments. The social worker also works with the healthcare team to organize the patient’s discharge from the hospital with the help of resources in the community (CLSC, rehabilitation centres, etc.)
Spiritual advisor
The spiritual advisor offers religious and spiritual support to people who are hospitalized and their loved ones.
Volunteer
The volunteer gives time, energy and services to those who need it. Volunteers play an important role in the support system offered by hospitals.
Helping yourself
What you can do
You know best what makes you feel better. Here are some things that can help. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, because they’re good for your body and good for morale:
Give yourself time
- There is a lot of information to retain. Don’t try to learn it all in one day.
- You will have questions. Write them down and bring them with you to your next appointment.
- Your body needs time to recover during treatment.
A healthy lifestyle will help you feel better
- Eat healthy
- Sleep a lot
- Do activities that you enjoy and that relax you
- Socialize
Accept help from others, they want what is best for you
- Practical help
- Emotional support
- Delegate tasks if you need to
- Do not be embarrassed to ask for help
Spend time with others and give them your attention
- Your friends and family also need comfort
- Keep a good line of communication open
- Resolve problems when they happen
Your role
You can also participate in the management of your care by keeping a personal medical record on your health condition and by ensuring that all your doctors receive a copy of your tests results. During each medical visit, you can inform your doctor of your discussions with other specialists. This will facilitate communication between each health care provider responsible for your care.
We are here for you
You have questions or concerns? Don’t hesitate. Contact us at 1-855-899-2873 to discuss with one of our nurses specialized in uro-oncology. They are there to listen, support and answer your questions, and those of your family or your loved ones. It’s simple and free, like all of our other services.
Also take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease, our expert lectures, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you, our events and ways to get involved to advance the cause.
Last medical and editorial review: September 2023
Written by PROCURE. © All rights reserved
Impact on you
Impact on you
Prostate cancer is typically a slow-growing cancer, which can be cured when detected at an early stage. Today, thanks to advanced technologies that enable early detection and new effective treatments against this disease, its progression is usually controlled for years and even cured in those affected.
Few things are as difficult as learning that you have cancer. The word itself casts a chilling shadow, as does the knowledge of the side effects and complications from treatment.
Much like the impact of breast cancer, the psychological effects of prostate cancer are deeply troubling to the sufferer. Prostate cancer touches a very sensitive place in the male psyche. For one thing, a man’s physical integrity is threatened by the risk of erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence brought about by treatment. But even more profoundly, the disease troubles a man’s very perception of himself, his body, his sexuality and his intimate relationships.
For a younger man – A man of 82 who develops prostate cancer does not go through the same thing as a man of 49 who is still sexually virile and able to reproduce. Not only does the latter fear dying young, he also worries about losing his sexual powers. He might feel that “it’s all over,” that he is “no longer a man” and that his partner will abandon him. Most men in this age bracket are ready to do anything to cure the disease and will undergo the most aggressive treatment available.
For an older man – Older men tend to react differently. Generally less sexually active, these men may find it a little easier to accept having their prostate removed or losing the ability to achieve erections. On the other hand, they may have more trouble dealing with treatment side effects like urinary incontinence and be less willing to spend a great deal of time in hospital. They might therefore choose to undergo treatments with “milder” side effects.
The person hearing this terrifying news knows that life will never be the same, and emotions can range from denial to anger, despair to hope, and courage to fear, for both the patient and his or her loved ones. All of this is completely normal.
What you can feelr
People who have cancer often experience a high level of stress that they may find difficult to deal with. There are so many unknown factors and so many questions to ask. What effects will the treatments have on me? Am I going to get better? Etc.
When you learn you have cancer
When you’re told you have cancer, it’s natural to react in one of these ways:
- experiencing a sense of “shock”
- not believing the diagnosis, especially if you haven’t had any symptoms
- feeling angry or feeling that the situation is so unfair
- having no reaction or just a mild reaction for a while
Many men also:
- feel they’ve lost control of their lives
- are afraid their body and self-image will change
- feel powerless, sad, guilty
- have a sense of lost masculinity
- worry about their family, work or financial situation
- worry about their relationship, their quality of life, their sexual life
These reactions reveal what you’re feeling inside. Pay close attention to your reactions. They will show you how you need to take care of yourself, reach out to your support system and find a new life balance.
Stages sometimes harder to overcome
Certain stages can be especially difficult:
- waiting for medical tests
- receiving test results
- discussing treatment options
- experiencing side effects
- finishing your treatment and resuming an active life
- coping with a reccurence
- accepting the end of life
How distress can manifest
Each person copes differently with illness and care. Some have stronger reactions and experience psychological distress. This can manifest as:
- physical signs: not related to the disease or treatments, Such as stomach or headaches, loss of appetite, insomnia, muscle tension, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, etc.
- unusual behaviors: losing interest in activities one enjoys, being irritable and aggressive, avoiding family and friends, being completely disorganized, turning to alcohol, etc.
- false beliefs: for example, thinking “it’s my fault I have cancer”, “I deserve what’s happening to me” or “my father had it, I should have been screened.”
- intense emotions: crying a lot, feeling very anxious or very angry, etc.
Monitoring signs of distress. These become worrying if:
- they are intense
- they persist for a long period
- the suffering is such that it is no longer possible to function in daily life, for example, not sleeping anymore, isolating oneself for fear of being judged by others, being constantly anxious
If you have previously consulted for a psychological problem, such as depression, tell your doctor. If you think you need help, talk to a member of your care team without delay. Depending on the case, the services of a psychologist may be helpful.
About 40% to 50% of men will need psychosocial intervention at some point during their journey. Consulting without delay allows for better psychological well-being and better adjustment to the demands of treatment and illness.
Important – In case intrusive thoughts of death become overwhelming or thoughts of suicide occur, seek help promptly or go to the emergency room of a hospital.
Who can help
It is well known that men are less likely than women to consult a specialist for a psychological problem. They are more modest, more withdrawn, and some feel that meeting a specialist undermines their masculinity. And this doesn’t really change with age.
Not all men with prostate cancer will need the intervention of a professional. About 55% to 60% of patients manage without it. As for others, even if they find it difficult and embarrassing, they should not hesitate to pick up the phone to make an appointment. This can have a beneficial effect on their quality of life, during and after treatment.
You can benefit from the support of several professionals at the same time or successively during your medical journey. To learn about their support role, consult our Depression and Anxiety page here.
- The psychiatrist
- The psychologist
- The sexologist
- The social worker
- Spiritual advisor
- Volunteer
What you can do
You know better than anyone else what makes you feel good. Often, the following actions help. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits benefits both the body and the mind.
Give yourself time
- There is a lot of information to remember, so don’t try to do it all in one day.
- You will surely have questions. Write them down to have them on hand for your next appointment.
- Your body needs time to recover after treatment.
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits will make you feel better
- Eat healthily.
- Get plenty of sleep: sleep is essential for proper recovery.
- Engage in activities you enjoy and that will relax you.
- Exercise regularly, such as taking a daily health walk.
- Socialize.
Accept help from others, they want what’s best for you
- They can offer practical help.
- They can provide emotional support.
- They can perform certain tasks for you if you have too much on your plate.
Also, give your time and attention to others
- Your loved ones also need comfort.
- Maintain good communication.
- Address problems as they arise.
Participate in managing your care
You can participate in managing your care by keeping a personal medical record of your health status and ensuring that all your doctors receive a copy of your test results. At each medical visit, you can inform your doctor about visits to other specialists. This approach will facilitate communication between each healthcare professional responsible for your care. Do not hesitate to consult them at any stage of your treatment and follow-up. They are part of your care team.
Additional Information - Treatment options
How I coped with prostate cancer
A man with prostate cancer shares the challenges of his cancer experience.
Urologist’s advice: Treatments and information on prostate cancer
Learn more about the role of the urologist and the importance for a patient to gather adequate information after receiving a prostate cancer diagnosis.
Prostate cancer: Tests, imaging and biomarkers
Discussion about the variety of approaches available to monitor this disease before, during, or after treatment.
Is prostate cancer hereditary?
Understanding the hereditary and genetic aspects of this disease can provide valuable information to both individuals affected and their families.
Symptoms, risk and screening
Are you over 50 or experiencing urinary problems? Discover why early screening for prostate diseases is important.
Diagnosis and treatment
Recently diagnosed with cancer? Educate yourself to fully understand your situation.
The role of hormone therapy
Has your doctor recommended hormone therapy? This video is for you!
States of prostate cancer following treatment
Do your recent tests show an increase in PSA levels? It could indicate a recurrence.
External radiation or Brachytherapy?
Explore the benefits and considerations of each treatment option for prostate cancer to determine which might be right for you.
Q-A – New therapies for advance prostate cancer
In this interview, we answer patients’ questions about new therapies for advanced prostate cancer.
Genetic predisposition to prostate cancer
Although rare, some hereditary genetic mutations can increase your risk of prostate cancer.
All about hormone therapy
Hormone therapy can reduce tumor size, control cancer, and prolong life. Is it the right treatment for your cancer?
Active surveillance in 5 points
As surprising as it may seem, your doctor may prefer to wait before starting treatment.
States of prostate cancer post-treatment
Gentlemen, you’re being treated for prostate cancer, and your latest blood tests show an increase in PSA levels?
Your role as a patient
Have you been diagnosed with prostate cancer? Your role as a patient is essential throughout your journey.
Me a guinea pig?
Did you know that participating in a clinical trial advances medical science and improves the lot of patients for future generations?
Sources and references
Last medical and editorial review: April 2024. See our web page validation committee and our collaborators by clicking here.
Discover our animated video!
Symptoms, risk and screening
Are you over 50 years old, or have you been having urinary problems for some time now? This video is for you! Several diseases can affect your prostate, and it’s important to detect them early. Let’s take a closer look.
Anatomy
What is the prostate
The prostate is a gland:
- Located between the bladder and the penis, just in front of the rectum;
- Formed of 2 lobes which surround the urethra, a canal that runs through the center of the prostate, from the bladder to the penis, letting urine and sperm flow out of the body;
- The size of a walnut, which grows larger in size in your forties;
- That has a soft, spongy texture to the touch like a small, ripe plum.
The prostate is made of:
- Gland cells that secrete liquids for ejaculation;
- Muscle cells that participate in the evacuation of your sperm during ejaculation;
- Fiber cells that maintain the structure of the gland.
Around the prostate, we find:
- The seminal vesicles, glands that produce sperm and that are located on either side of the prostate;
- The vas deferens, the tube that carries sperm from the testicle to the seminal vesicles;
- The nerve bundles that control your bladder and erectile function and that are located on either side of your prostate.
Structure
Three main zones of the prostate
Peripheral zone
- The peripheral zone is the largest area of the prostate. It can easily be felt by the doctor during a digital rectal exam (DRE).
- Most prostate cancers start in the peripheral zone.
Transition zone
- This is the area located in the middle of the prostate, between the peripheral and central areas. It surrounds your urethra that runs through the prostate.
- With age, the transitional area increases in size until it becomes the largest portion of your prostate. This is called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate.
Central zone
- It is the part of the prostate that is farthest from the rectum. This is why prostate tumors located in this area can not be felt by the doctor during a digital rectal examination.
- If the doctor is in doubt, the following information will help decide if additional investigation is necessary:
- Your PSA level
- Your age and family history
- Your ethnic origin
Fonction
In short
Your fertility and natural fertilization
- It produces … a prostatic fluid rich in enzymes, proteins and minerals that nourishes and protects your spermatozoa.
- It makes … a protein (APS) that is used to liquefy your sperm to facilitate the mobility of your spermatozoa.
- It allows … ejaculation by contracting.
- It promotes … fertility through its enzymes facilitating the penetration of sperm through the cervix.
- It is not related to the mechanism of erection. Therefore, the origin of erectile dysfunction lies elsewhere.
Additional details
Exocrine Function
The prostate is made up of thousands of tiny fluid-producing glands. Specifically, the prostate is an exocrine gland. Exocrine glands are so-called because they secrete through ducts to the outside of the body (or into a cavity that communicates with the outside). Sweat glands are another example of an exocrine gland.
The fluid that the prostate gland produces forms part of semen, the fluid that carries sperm during orgasm. This fluid, produced in the prostate, is stored with sperm in the seminal vesicles. When the male climaxes, muscular contractions cause the prostate to secrete this fluid into the urethra, where it is expelled from the body through the penis.
Urine Flow
The prostate wraps itself around the urethra as it passes from the bladder to the penis. Prostatic changes can affect urine flow. Increasing the size of the prostate or muscle tone may impede the flow of urine due to the close anatomical relationship between the urethra and the prostate.
Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA)
The prostate also produces a protein called prostate-specific antigen (PSA). PSA is released with the ejaculatory fluid and can also be traced in the bloodstream. The testing of PSA levels in the blood is used to detect prostate cancer. The level of PSA in the blood is usually measured in nanograms of PSA per milliliter of blood (ng/mL).
A raised PSA level
Usually, a PSA rate of less than 4 nanograms per milliliter of blood is normal, but age should also be taken into consideration as PSA levels gradually increase with age. A rise in PSA concentration may indicate the presence of:
- An enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hyperplasia)
- An inflammation or infection of the prostate (prostatitis)
- A prostate cancer
Your doctor will have you undergo other tests to determine the exact cause of the increase in your PSA.
We are here for you
You have questions or concerns? Don’t hesitate. Contact us at 1-855-899-2873 to discuss with one of our nurses specialized in uro-oncology. They are there to listen, support and answer your questions, and those of your family or your loved ones. It’s simple and free, like all of our other services.
Also take the time to visit each of our pages on this website, as well as our YouTube channel, in order to get familiar with the disease, our expert lectures, our section on available resources, the support that is offered to you, our events and ways to get involved to advance the cause..
Staying Informed
Pages that might interest you
Want to know more? Just click on one of the links below.
The latest PROCURE news that might interest you
Every week we publish a blog article. Here are some for you.
The medical content and editorial team at PROCURE
Our team is composed of urologists, and nurses certified in uro-oncology with a deep knowledge of prostate cancer and other diseases related to the genitourinary system. Meet our staff by clicking here.
Sources and references
- Prostate Cancer – Understand the disease and its treatments; Fred Saad, MD, FRCSC and Michael McCormack, MD, FRCSC, 4th et 5th editions
- Canadian Cancer Society
- Prostate Cancer Foundation-PCF.org
- National Cancer Institute-USA
- American Cancer Society
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
- Prostate Cancer UK
Last medical and editorial review: September 2023
Written by PROCURE. © All rights reserved
