why choose us

300×250 Ad Slot

Research Article: Barriers and facilitators to symptom-related help-seeking among men with genitourinary malignancies: a qualitative study

Date Published: 2026-10-09

Abstract:
To explore perceived barriers and facilitating factors related to symptom-related help-seeking among men with genitourinary malignancies and inform the development of symptom-management support. Men with genitourinary malignancies were recruited through purposive sampling at a tertiary hospital. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method. Fifteen men were interviewed, and two themes with five subthemes were identified. Barrier factors comprised limited symptom knowledge, psychosocial concerns, and difficulties accessing information and symptom-management support. Facilitating factors comprised social and family support and perceived benefits of seeking professional help. The findings suggest potential priorities for symptom-management support, including symptom education, family and social support, and accessible professional advice. Their relevance should be considered in relation to the cancer types, age distribution, and care setting represented in this study.

Introduction:
Male genitourinary malignancies include cancers of the kidney, prostate, bladder, testis, ureter, and penis ( 1 – 4 ). Cancer statistics in the United States indicate that the highest prevalence of cancer in men is prostate cancer, followed by bladder, kidney, and testicular cancer ( 5 , 6 ). The increase in its incidence may be related to factors such as population aging, modern lifestyle changes, increased exposure to risk factors, advances in disease screening and diagnosis, and improved residents’ awareness of…

Read more

300×250 Ad Slot