Unbiased and reliable information for prostate cancer patients now available online

The European Association of Urology (EAU) is pleased to announce the launch of its Patient Information on Prostate Cancer [1], available immediately.

About the European Association of Urology

The EAU represents the leading authority within Europe on urological practice, research and education. Over 16,000 medical professionals have joined its ranks and help to create forward-looking solutions for continuous improvement, professional growth and knowledge sharing. The EAU delivers training, stimulates research and broadcasts information. The EAU’s scientific publications encourage discussion and its expert recommendations guide urologists in their every-day practice.

About EAU Patient Information

EAU Patient Information is an initiative of the European Association of Urology. With EAU Patient Information on Prostate Cancer, the EAU seeks to foster doctor-patient communication in a clear and unbiased manner, to continue raising the level of urological care in Europe, and around the world.

EAU Patient Information on Prostate Cancer is an easy-to-use tool that can be read online, or printed for offline use. The leaflets can be downloaded separately for each stage of prostate cancer, or as a complete set. To learn more, visit the EAU Patient Information website at http://patients.uroweb.org.

A multidisciplinary team of urologists, oncologists, nurses, and patients collaborated to provide up-to-date information on diagnosis, treatment, and support for prostate cancer. All information is in line with the latest EAU Guidelines [2].

Increased survival rate

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in elderly males throughout Europe. Since the disease is generally associated with older age, prostate cancer is becoming a greater concern as the population of Europe lives longer, and grows older. While it is a serious health issue, there is positive news. The 5-year relative survival in most of Europe has increased significantly [3]. This reflects major advances in cancer management, and improved treatments.

Complex info explained in plain language

The availability of treatments and the complexity of the information can lead patients to feel overwhelmed. EAU Patient Information on Prostate Cancer addresses this by providing clear and structured information on each stage of the disease. Whenever possible, anatomical characteristics and medical procedures are illustrated to provide visual aids to patients, and a tool for medical professionals to talk about each treatment option.

The extensive support sections provide information about the emotional, social, sexual, and financial consequences of prostate cancer, relevant for the patient and those close to him. EAU Patient Information contains sub-sections written especially for friends and family, as well as partners. The support sections also give practical tips for dealing with the side-effects of treatment.

Unbiased overview

According to Thorsten Bach, EAU Patient Information Consultant, EAU Patient Information on Prostate Cancer “guarantees an unbiased overview on evidence-based treatment opportunities for patient, enabling patients and their family to ask the right questions.” This allows patients to engage in an informed discussion with their doctor, and find the best treatment for their individual situation.

EAU Patient Information on Prostate Cancer benefits the doctor-patient relation, and could influence adherence to treatment and improved outcomes. As Bach elaborates: “educating a patient about his disease is an effective way to increase compliance and reduce the risk of complications.”

Improving the level of urological care

With EAU Patient Information on Prostate Cancer, the EAU seeks to foster doctor-patient communication in a clear and unbiased manner, to continue raising the level of urological care in Europe, and around the world.

Reference

Patient Information on Prostate Cancer, European Association of Urology, 2015.
N. Mottet, P.J. Bastian, J. Bellmunt, R.C.N. van den Bergh, M. Bolla, N.J. van Casteren, P. Cornford, S. Joniau, M.D. Mason, V. Matveev, T.H. van der Kwast, H. van der Poel, O. Rouvière, T. Wiegel. Guidelines on Prostate Cancer. Uroweb 2015. Available at: http://www.uroweb.org/gls/pdf/1607%20Prostate%20Cancer_LRV3.pdf. Accesed January 16, 2015.
C. Allemani, H.K. Weir, H. Carreira, et al. Global surveillance of cancer survival 1995-2009: analysis of individual data for 25 676 887 patients from 279 population-based registries in 67 countries (CONCORD-2). Lancet. 2014. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(14)62038-9.

Keywords: prostate cancer, 5-year relative survival

10. 2. 2015 Press Release of the European Association of Urology

Back