Sense of Coherence and Quality of Life in Prostate Cancer Patients Treated With Radical Radiotherapy

Health-related quality of life (HRQL) is an important clinical outcome in oncology, particularly in patients with prostate cancer, who often experience long survival and treatment-related side effects. Psychological and social factors may influence the way patients cope with cancer diagnosis and treatment. The concept of salutogenesis, introduced by Antonovsky, emphasizes factors that support health and adaptation, with sense of coherence (SOC) representing a key internal resource for coping with stressful life events.

This prospective single-group interventional clinical study investigates the relationship between SOC and HRQL, self-rated health (SRH), and objectively assessed treatment-related problems in patients with prostate cancer treated with radical radiotherapy.

The study is conducted at the Institute of Oncology Ljubljana. Patients are assessed at three time points: before initiation of radical radiotherapy, at the end of radiotherapy, and one year after completion of treatment. HRQL is measured using the EORTC QLQ-C30 questionnaire (version 3), SOC is measured using the SOC-13 questionnaire, and SRH is evaluated through patient self-assessment. Objective treatment-related problems, including urinary and bowel symptoms, are assessed using a structured physician-led interview. Additional clinical data regarding treatment type and comorbidities are collected from medical records.

The main objectives are to describe SOC, HRQL, SRH, and objectively assessed treatment-related problems over time, and to evaluate correlations between these variables. Statistical analyses will include descriptive statistics, repeated measures analysis, correlation and regression methods, and multivariable models to adjust for relevant clinical and demographic factors.

The study is expected to provide new evidence on psychosocial factors associated with quality of life outcomes in prostate cancer patients treated with radical radiotherapy and may support development of patient-centered supportive interventions.

Inclusion criteria

• Male patients aged 18 years and older
• Histologically confirmed prostate cancer
• Planned for radical radiotherapy treatment
• Ability to understand and complete questionnaires independently
• Written informed consent provided

Exclusion criteria

• Previous radiotherapy for prostate cancer
• Metastatic disease at the time of enrollment
• Any condition that, in the investigator's opinion, would interfere with study participation or data quality