Living with a prostate cancer diagnosis: a qualitative 2-year follow-up

Abstract

Aim. Previous research has identified how newly diagnosed prostate cancer affects men's daily lives, including daily activities and existential issues. The aim of this qualitative study was to provide information if and how prostate cancer affects men's daily lives 2 years after the diagnosis.

Methods. A second follow-up interview with men who were diagnosed with localized or advanced prostate cancer approximately 18–24 months earlier. Twenty-two men aged 50–85 years participated, data were analyzed by hermeneutical interpretation with Gadamer's approach.

Results. The men feel healthy, but prostate cancer affects their daily lives. They experience every day fatigue associated with several changes in life due to age. Three equivalent fusions which influenced the men are: ‘Age is claiming its due’, ‘Living with uncertainty’, and ‘Strengthen self-esteem’. The unifying fusion is identified as ‘Balancing a changed life situation.’

Conclusions. There is need for knowledge and guidance for men with prostate cancer on how to adapt to new life situation decreasing uncertainty and increasing welfare. Men found a sense of pride, despite physical changes, in appreciating independence and close relationships. Value of life was readjusted. The findings indicate harmony in living, enjoying being frank as well as rating the ‘little’ things.

Keywords:

• Prostate
• cancer
• oncology
• fatigue
• affected life situation
• hermeneutic
• longitudinal study

Acknowledgments

The authors are grateful to all those who voluntary participated in this study and to Geoff Dykes, Lund for providing English language revision. This research was supported by grants from the Research Unit, Futurum – The Academy of Healthcare, Jönköping County Council (No. 20702).