prostate cancer follow-up care and support
During and after prostate cancer treatment, the doctor will continue to follow the patient. The doctor will examine the man regularly to be sure that the prostate cancer has not returned or progressed, and will decide what other medical care may be needed. Follow-up exams may include x-rays, scans, and lab tests, such as the PSA blood test.
Support for Men with Prostate Cancer
Living with a serious disease such as prostate cancer is not easy. Some people find they need help coping with the emotional as well as the practical aspects of their disease. Patients often get together in support groups, where they can share what they have learned about coping with prostate cancer and the effects of treatment. Patients may want to talk with a member of their health care team about finding a support group.
People living with prostate cancer may worry about caring for their families, keeping their jobs, or continuing daily activities. Concerns about treatments and managing side effects, hospital stays, and medical bills are also common. Doctors, nurses, dietitians and other members of the health care team can answer questions about treatment, working, or other activities. Meeting with a social worker, counselor, or member of the clergy can be helpful to those who want to talk about their feelings or discuss their concerns. Often, a social worker can suggest resources for help with rehabilitation, emotional support, financial aid, transportation, or home care.
It is natural for a man and his partner to be concerned about the effects of prostate cancer and its treatment on their sexual relationship. They may want to talk with the doctor about possible side effects and whether these are likely to be temporary or permanent. Whatever the outlook, it is usually helpful for patients and their partners to talk about their concerns and help one another find ways to be intimate during and after prostate cancer treatment.
The Cancer Information Service can also provide information to help patients and their families locate programs and services.
Source
http://cancer.gov
NCI's Web site contains comprehensive information about cancer causes and prevention, screening and diagnosis, treatment and survivorship; clinical trials; statistics; funding, training, and employment opportunities; and the Institute and its programs.
See the complete index of What You Need To Know About™ Cancer publications.
Posted January 2004
Updated October 2009
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