Gay men's experiences with prostate cancer: Implications for future research

J Health Psychol. 2020 Mar;25(3):298-310. doi: 10.1177/1359105317711491. Epub 2017 Jun 15.

Abstract

Gay men's experiences with prostate cancer and its impact on health-related quality of life are poorly understood. This qualitative study explored gay men's experience with prostate cancer with a focus on the emotional, physical, and sexual impact of cancer; support needs; and healthcare interactions. Three semi-structured focus groups of gay men with prostate cancer were conducted. A conventional content analytic approach was used to identify six primary content areas that described poignant aspects of the men's experience with prostate cancer: minority stress, intimacy and sexuality concerns, impact on life outlook, healthcare experiences, social support and the gay community, and intersectional identities.

Keywords: gay men; health-related quality of life; minority stress; prostate cancer; support.

MeSH terms

  • Homosexuality, Male / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Patient Satisfaction*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / psychology*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / therapy
  • Qualitative Research
  • Sexual Behavior / psychology*
  • Sexual Partners / psychology
  • Sexual and Gender Minorities / psychology*
  • Social Support*