Comparison of Distress Scores Before and After Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer.

BACKGROUND/AIM:Prostate cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy (RT) may experience distress. This study evaluated the course of distress during RT. PATIENTS AND METHODS:Four distress characteristics were analyzed for change of distress in 136 patients irradiated for prostate cancer, including age, Karnofsky performance score, intent of RT, and previous RT. RESULTS:Mean distress scores were 4.3 (±2.9) at baseline and 4.2 (±2.7) at the end of RT. Associations with increased distress were found for KPS >80 (p<0.001) and curative intent RT (p=0.072). When evaluating increased distress as binary variable (yes vs. no), KPS >80 was significant on univariable (p<0.001) and multivariable (p=0.016) analyses. In patients with baseline scores ≤5 points, KPS >80 was associated with mean change of distress (p=0.009) and increased distress (p=0.029). CONCLUSION:Many patients receiving RT for prostate cancer do not experience increased distress during their treatment course. Patients at higher risk of increased distress may require early psychological assistance.