Intervention of Urinary Incontinence and Quality of Life Outcome in Prostate Cancer Patients

Abstract

This study examined the effect of combined Pelvic Floor Muscle Exercises (PFME) and support group on quality of life of postprostatectomy patients. Twenty—nine participants learned PFME through biofeedback and were randomized to the control group (n = 15) and support group (n = 14). Assessment of quality of life was conducted at baseline and 3-month follow—up. The findings indicated a trend of increased functioning and reduced perception of illness intrusiveness in the support group, compared with the control group. Improved urinary continence was significantly associated with reduced depression and symptom distress over time. The findings suggest that an intervention focusing on urinary continence improves quality of life in these patients.

Key Words:

• Quality of life
• urinary incontinence
• support group
• pelvic floor muscle exercises
• prostate cancer