Improving Quality of Life and Psychosocial Health for Penile Cancer Survivors: A Narrative Review

Treatment of penile cancer (PC) focuses on organ preservation, employing various surgical and non-surgical approaches. These interventions may lead to disfigurement, impacting patients' functional outcomes and psychosocial well-being. We reviewed studies related to penile health and PC up to Fe...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Cancers 2024-04, Vol.16 (7), p.1309
Main Authors: Torres Irizarry, Von Marie, Paster, Irasema Concepcion, Ogbuji, Vanessa, Gomez, D'Andre Marquez, Mccormick, Kyle, Chipollini, Juan
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Anxiety
Body image
Cancer therapies
Diagnosis
Genital cancers
Lymphatic system
Malignancy
Mental depression
Metastasis
Patients
Penis
Preservation
Psychological aspects
Quality of life
Questionnaires
Reproductive organs
Sexual disorders
Squamous cell carcinoma
Stress
Surgery
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Summary:Treatment of penile cancer (PC) focuses on organ preservation, employing various surgical and non-surgical approaches. These interventions may lead to disfigurement, impacting patients' functional outcomes and psychosocial well-being. We reviewed studies related to penile health and PC up to February 2024, limited to studies published in English. Studies employing health-related quality of life (HRQoL) assessments have identified a detrimental association between aggressive treatment and overall health status, physical functioning, and relationships. In contrast, organ-sparing demonstrates improved measures related to HRQoL and sexual function. Assessment through validated questionnaires reveals diverse voiding outcomes, and varying impacts on QoL and sexual activity, emphasizing the necessity for multidisciplinary personalized care. Studies highlight substantial variations in sexual function, with patients reporting adaptations, reduced satisfaction, and concerns about body image and sexual well-being. Furthermore, unmet needs include challenges in patient-clinician communication, obtaining information, and accessing psychosocial support. Patient experiences underscore the importance of timely diagnosis, treatment access, and addressing psychological consequences. Organ-sparing approaches have higher QoL preservation and sexual function. Individualized support, including sexual therapy, support groups, and family counseling, is essential for post-treatment rehabilitation. Timely diagnosis and comprehensive care are paramount in addressing the multifaceted impact of PC on patients and families.
ISSN:2072-6694
2072-6694
DOI:10.3390/cancers16071309