A recent study conducted by the Menzies Health Institute at Griffith University in collaboration with the Cancer Council Queensland has uncovered alarming trends regarding men’s health in Queensland. The research highlights that over 80 percent of prostate cancer patients report unmet supportive care needs, particularly among those who require assistance the most.
The findings indicate that older age, lower levels of education, and symptoms of depression act as significant barriers preventing men from seeking help. These issues were particularly pronounced in the first year following a prostate cancer diagnosis.
According to the study, 58 percent of Queensland men with prostate cancer expressed unmet sexual needs, while nearly half reported unmet psychological needs. Additionally, 41 percent indicated a lack of support for physical and daily living needs. Professor Suzanne Chambers, Director of the Menzies Health Institute QLD, emphasized the profound concern surrounding sexual needs as a source of discomfort for many affected men.
Understanding the Barriers
“The top five needs identified by the study were related to sexuality, prostate cancer-specific requirements, psychological support, physical and daily living assistance, and information about the health system,” said Professor Chambers. She explained how men who are older, less educated, and experiencing depression are statistically less likely to reach out for help.
For older men, traditional masculine values and a strong sense of self-reliance may inhibit them from seeking the necessary support. The study also highlights how lower educational levels can correlate with reduced health literacy, which is concerning given the link between health literacy and poorer health outcomes. Furthermore, the connection between depression and reluctance to seek help underscores the importance of regular assessments of psychosocial needs, including systematic distress screening.
Seeking Support
Katie Clift, spokesperson for Cancer Council Queensland, noted that where men do seek assistance, the most accessed sources include medical professionals, nurses, and prostate cancer support groups. “Our research identifies the need for a holistic approach to better support men with prostate cancer—one that integrates medical care, nursing, and community-based peer support,” Clift stated.
The findings of this study call for greater awareness and action to address the significant gaps in supportive care for men diagnosed with prostate cancer in Queensland. As the healthcare community responds to these insights, there is hope that more men will be encouraged to seek the help they need, ultimately improving their quality of life and health outcomes.
