Barnett, Fiona A, Yau, Matthew, and Gray, Marion (2014) The efficacy of a group-based exercise and sexuality education program for Prostate Cancer Survivors. Rehabilitation Oncology, 32 (4). pp. 45-51.

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Abstract

Background: The benefits of exercise intervention and sexuality education for prostate cancer (PCa) survivors include reductions in fatigue and improvement in quality of life (QoL) (eg, health, psychological, social, and sexual), muscular strength, and aerobic fitness.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of an 8-week exercise intervention and sexuality education program for PCa survivors.

Methods: PCa survivors included all men over 50 years of age treated for or diagnosed with PCa over the last 3 years. Eight participants volunteered to take part in the intervention program. Five participants completed the group-based 8-week intervention program of 3 sessions per week and three 45-60 minute sexual education sessions. Preand post-measures were taken for fatigue, QoL, muscular endurance, and aerobic fitness. At the completion of the 8-week program, participants took part in one-on-one semi-structured interviews. Transcriptions of interviews were analysed thematically in order to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the program as perceived by participants.

Results: All participants improved in muscular endurance, aerobic fitness, and functional status. Perceived strengths of the program included increased motivation for exercise, the socialisation aspect of group-based training, instructor support, and relevant sexuality education content. Participants felt that the program could be improved by increasing the intensity level of the aerobic training component.

Conclusion: Findings demonstrated that an 8-week intervention was perceived as a positive experience for PCa survivors.

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