Quiz predicts male function after prostate cancer treatment

A new study says that men concerned about losing sexual function after treatment for prostate cancer can now get some answers, but that they vary widely by individual. The basic results tended to be that men with better performance prior to treatment also did better afterwards. 

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - A recent study has found that performance following prostate cancer treatment varies based on age, ability prior to treatment, PSA levels, and the methods of treatment used. Weight and race are also factors, the study said.
 
Using the results of the study, doctors can now give men a better idea of their odds by having them answering a few simple questions. Doctors developed a questionnaire to help quantify the variables in the study.
 
The study was done by tracking 1,027 men over 24 months. The data collected from their records and interviews showed that 37 percent of men had functional erections following treatment compared to 48 percent who had the same function before.
 
Using the data, researchers developed the questionnaire, which doctors can give to men to predict their odds.

Co-author of the study, Dr. Martin Sanda of Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston said, "This will make it possible for patients to have a more realistic view of what to expect for themselves, rather than trying to guess where they fit in overall compared to the average guy with prostate cancer."

The National Institutes of Health funded the study, which is published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

---

'Help Give every Student and Teacher FREE resources for a world-class Moral Catholic Education'