Report on the quality of life analysis from the phase III trial of pion versus photon radiotherapy in locally advanced prostate cancer

This report examines the quality of life (QOL) of 215 patients entered into a randomised trial between pion and photon radiotherapy For prostate cance r at a single institution. The survival and local control results of the tr ial were equivalent in both arms. A modification of the Rotterdam Symptom C hecklist (RSCL) was used to assess QOL. Global QOL, toxicity and physical s cores were found to be worse in pion-treated patients at the end of treatme nt (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, and P = 0.02 respectively). There are no long-ter m differences in the QOL of pion- versus photon-treated patients. Sexual fu nction was a concern for patients even at baseline. There was a progressive loss of sexual interest and erectile function. There was a significant imp act from hormonal therapy at relapse. Hormonal treatment produced a stepwis e significant worsening in global QOL, particularly for physical and psycho logical domains. (C) 2000 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights res erved.