Michael E. Galbraith

To describe health-related quality of life (QOL), health status, and marital satisfaction of couples as many as 5.5 years after treatment for prostate cancer. Survey with longitudinal, comparative, and predictive elements. A tertiary care nonprofit medical center in the southwestern United States. Convenience sample of prostate cancer survivors (192 enrolled, 137 completed) and their partners (126 enrolled, 104 completed). Men averaged 70 years of age, women 66. Most men (86%) and women (89%) were white, and 71% had at least some college education. Questionnaires were mailed annually. Women were enrolled 3.5 years after their partners were treated. Study participants received separate questionnaire packets. Health-related QOL, health status including post-treatment symptoms, and marital satisfaction. Men's health-related QOL, general physical health, and vitality decreased; urinary and sexual post-treatment symptoms increased. Men were concerned about their sexual functioning although few sought treatment. Couples' health-related QOL and marital satisfaction were associated more closely than their health status. Regardless of type of treatment, health-related QOL and general health tend to decrease for prostate cancer survivors; men in watchful waiting tended to have poorer health outcomes. Men are concerned about sexual functioning, yet few are taking steps to remedy problems. Couples' health-related QOL and marital satisfaction are linked; however, health status indicators are less associated. Nurses are in a key position to assess health-related QOL and sexual functioning concerns for prostate cancer survivors and their partners.