Long-term follow-up 3  years after a randomized rehabilitation study among radiated prostate cancer survivors

ConclusionThe short-term rehabilitation was beneficial but of limited benefit in the long term for all patients. A significant and clinically relevant effect was found in irradiated prostate cancer patients with moderate-severe urinary problems at baseline. In both groups, pelvic floor strength was weakened during follow-up.Impact for cancer survivorsPrior research showed patients benefit from early rehabilitation. Identification of patients with moderate-severe urinary problems followed by a focused rehabilitation during the first 6  months after radiotherapy results in long-term improvement. Radiated patients have to be aware of their pelvic floor strength.Implications for Cancer SurvivorsPatients can be informed that they benefit from early rehabilitation, and they cannot expect larger changes in adverse effects within the first years, but they have to be aware of their pelvic floor strength. Future rehabilitation studies could be applied mainly to patients with assessed rehabilitation needs after radiotherapy and intensified with long-term follow-up.
Source: Journal of Cancer Survivorship - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: research