The experience of radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer: the men's perspective.

The aim of this study is to examine the experiences of men treated with radiotherapy for localized prostate cancer. The recognition that little research has been carried out about the impact of illness in men, or how they recover following radical treatment, forms the basis for this study. The objectives of this study are to explore men's experiences of radiotherapy for prostate cancer and to consider if current services meet the needs of these men. This investigation took the form of a descriptive qualitative approach using focus groups. The focus group meetings were audiotaped and a qualitative thematic analysis of transcripts was carried out. The analysis of the data yielded five themes that were common to most of the men. The findings from this study suggest: a fragmented approach to the overall care and treatment for men with prostate cancer; a need to evaluate the provision of information and identify areas for improvement in all areas of practice; and an holistic approach to examine each aspect of the patient's journey.