Movember launches new clinical guidelines for sexual health care in prostate cancer

The publication of new clinical guidelines for sexual health care in The Journal of Sexual Medicine represents a significant ‘moment of change’ in prostate cancer.

The Guidelines for Sexual Health Care for Prostate Cancer Patients: Recommendations by an International Panel are the first of their kind, introducing a new standard of excellence for sexual health care in prostate cancer.

Developed with the support of Movember, the guidelines will help clinicians to assess and manage the sexual side effects of prostate cancer therapies and facilitate shared decision-making between clinicians, patients and their partners.

Sexual dysfunction is the most reported health-related quality of life outcome following treatment for prostate cancer and men often suffer in silence.

Unfortunately, reliable information or support is not always available, which can contribute to distress and relationship breakdowns.

Lead Guidelines Author, Daniela Wittmann, PhD, MSW, Certified Sex Therapist and Associate Professor, Department of Urology, University of Michigan, said: “These guidelines were informed not only by evidence, but also by listening to people with prostate cancer and their partners.

"Addressing sexual health is the responsibility of every clinician of every discipline who touches the life of a prostate cancer patient."

The evidence-based, biopsychosocial framework has been authored by an international expert panel and summarises 25 years of scientific research and literature to address prostate cancer patients’ greatest needs.

The framework also aims to promote openness and inclusivity, encouraging healthcare professionals to consider cultural context and provide tailored care to enhance sexual health and quality of life for every patient.

Kellie Paich, MPH, Global Director, Clinical Quality and Survivorship at Movember, said: “Historically the delivery of sexual health care services for people with prostate cancer has been neither sufficient nor inclusive.

"Understanding how societal and cultural norms, help-seeking behaviours and the social determinants of health may influence an individual person -- or an entire community -- is essential to understanding how to shape their care.”