Sexual Wellbeing for Men after a Prostate Cancer Diagnosis
Researchers at Ulster University are set to lead a pioneering international research programme which aims to improve the sexual health of men, and their partners, after a prostate cancer diagnosis. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men and treatments can lead to a number of physical and emotional challenges. In Northern Ireland, there are over 8,000 men living with and after prostate cancer, and there are over 330,000 men living with the disease UK-wide. More than three quarters of those who have had treatment for prostate cancer report experiencing erectile dysfunction. This three year study will see the creation of new flexible support packages designed to address individual needs and empower men and their partners to manage their sexual health challenges prior to and after treatment. The resources include: a web-based sexual recovery programme for men and their partners; an engagement tool to ensure quality communication between health professionals and men and their partners; an online sexual health training programme for health professionals caring for men living with prostate cancer. The research will be led by Professor EilĂs McCaughan at Ulster University’s Institute of Nursing and Health Research alongside colleagues from the Northern Ireland Cancer Centre, Ninewells Hospital in Dundee, University of Surrey, University of Southampton, University of Michigan and University of Toronto.