Gay men and prostate cancer: voicing the concerns of a hidden population
Received 3 June 2008; accepted 20 August 2008.
Abstract
Background
Prostate cancer (PCa) is of paramount concern to men's health, with a high prevalence in Western societies. While previous research has examined PCa from a variety of standpoints, this literature fails to take into account the difficulties encountered by marginalized groups of men, such as gay men.
Methods
For this phenomenological, qualitative pilot study, we conducted interviews with two gay men with PCa and one long term romantic partner of a gay man with PCa so as to better understand their viewpoints on the disease. An inductive, thematic analysis of the interview transcripts was conducted.
Results and conclusions
Major themes expressed included (1) concerns related to relationship changes and strains, (2) altered sexual function and associated implications for a gay identity, and (3) the perception of heteronormative attitudes in the health care system. Implications for health care delivery are discussed.
ABSTRACT