Couples' experiences of prostate cancer treatment in Malta: a descriptive qualitative investigation

Van Dijk, Gerrit 2022. Couples' experiences of prostate cancer treatment in Malta: a descriptive qualitative investigation. PhD Thesis, Cardiff University. Item availability restricted.

Preview	PDF - Accepted Post-Print Version Download (16MB) | Preview
	PDF (Cardiff University Electronic Publication Form) - Supplemental Material Restricted to Repository staff only Download (64kB)

Abstract

Background Prostate cancer treatment can negatively impact the functioning of men in several domains including urinary, sexual and social functioning, this may influence couples’ lives and relationship. Couples need to adjust to the changes caused by prostate cancer and may face considerable distress and issues along the way. This current study investigated the experiences of couples up to two years following radiotherapy treatment in Malta. Research aims and objectives The aim of this research was to explore the experiences of men (aged 64-74 years) and their partners in the first two years following radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer in Malta. The objectives of this study were to explore: • Experiences of the healthcare system for men and their spouses before commencing radiotherapy treatment. • Experiences of undergoing radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer for men and their spouses. • Men and their spouses’ experiences of the follow-up care after the completion of radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer. • The impact of a radiotherapy treatment for prostate cancer on the lives and relationships of men and their spouses. Methodology and methods This study employed a qualitative descriptive methodology and data were collected via in-depth interviews with twelve couples and two men who underwent prostate radiotherapy treatment. The data were analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s (2006) method of analysis, which incorporated familiarisation, generation of initial codes, searching for themes, reviewing themes and defining and naming of themes. Findings A diagnosis and treatment for prostate cancer was found to be a significant source of anxiety and distress for couples. Several areas were identified that were of particular concern, these included the following: the treatment decision-making process after diagnosis, bladder filling procedures during radiotherapy and follow-up arrangements after treatment. Findings revealed that some couples appraised the illness as a shared concern and other men adopted a more individual approach. It is proposed that the approach adopted by the men and their spouses had a strong link to the Developmental Contextual Model (DCM) of coping with stress. Conclusion Through the use of a qualitative descriptive approach, this study revealed the challenges that couples may face when living with prostate cancer, but also the abilities of some couples to integrate and adjust these changes into everyday life.

Item Type:	Thesis (PhD)
Date Type:	Completion
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Healthcare Sciences
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	23 January 2023
Last Modified:	10 Feb 2024 02:14
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/156172

Actions (repository staff only)

Edit Item