Assessing a man’s sexual health is particularly important in the treatment of prostate cancer. Almost all treatments for prostate cancer can result in some degree of ED. Physicians understandably emphasize the importance of curing the cancer and have historically neglected to recognize the impact of ED and/or sexual dysfunction that occurs after the cancer was treated. Similarly, patients are often so focused on treating their cancer, that they never discuss the sexual repercussions before undergoing treatment. Dr. Albaugh has changed the landscape by teaching doctors and patients that sexual health after prostate cancer is something that should be discussed at the same time as the cancer treatment plan. In the past, it wasn’t uncommon to hear otherwise healthy patients express regret about their cancer therapy due to the sexual dysfunction that continued to plague them long after their body otherwise healed.

Dr. Albaugh has developed a unique model that should be considered the gold standard for all men who are recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. I am fortunate to work alongside Dr. Albaugh so that before any prostate cancer treatment is performed, all patients and their partners undergo a sexual health assessment. During these visits, Jeff assesses sexual health goals and sets forth a plan to preserve sexual dysfunction. Just like the treatment of the cancer needs to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis based on the nature of the disease and the patient’s history, the same is true for sexual health. Jeff treats each patient situation differently and helps lay the groundwork for a plan of rehabilitation before any treatment begins. This support has dramatically improved the quality of life of patients and their significant others.

All men and their partners should read this book prior to undergoing prostate cancer treatment. This second edition highlights the patient and partner experience of acknowledging that sexual health is a fundamental part of treating the whole patient. It presents real-life interviews that have been conducted over the past 6 years. These voices tell the stories and experiences of men and their partners with prostate cancer. These stories make discussing a traditionally private topic easier. It is through this honesty that we are able to initiate discussions about topics that are truly important to patients and help to improve their quality of life before, during, and after prostate cancer treatments. I am truly honored and proud to work with Jeff on a daily basis. It is through his caring ways that he continues to touch the lives of so many patients. This book will be an invaluable resource for all men with prostate cancer and their partners.

Brian Helfand, MD, PhD

Chief Division of Urology

Ronald L. Chez Family and Richard Melman Family Endowed Chair of Prostate Cancer

John and Carol Walter Center for Urological Health

NorthShore University HealthSystem
Glenview, IL