Unmet Needs of Patients with Prostate Cancer Attending Cancer Centers in Eastern Kenya

Introduction: Prostate cancer (PCa) is the leading cancer among males globally. Patients with PCa experience a wide range of unmet needs including emotional, psychological, spiritual informational among others. However, resource constrained settings are unable to holistically address these needs. In Kenya, most studies assessing the unmet needs of cancer patients have been general or have focused on those already in palliative care. As a result, there is a gap in specifically addressing the unmet needs of patients with PCa across all stages of their disease and treatment, particularly those undergoing active treatment. Therefore, this study sought to explore the unmet needs of patients with PCa in Eastern Kenya. Methods: This was a qualitative descriptive study which was carried out in two cancer centers. A total of 32 males with histologically confirmed PCa participated in the study. Four focus group discussions (FGDs) were carried out, two per cancer center. Comprehensive Needs Assessment Tool (CNAT) was adopted as the interview schedule guide in the FGDs. Data was analyzed thematically. Ethical clearance and research permit were obtained from relevant authorities and the participants signed an informed consent. Results: The mean age of study participants was 71.94 years. Majority were married (81.3%, n=26) and over half were unemployed (53.1%, n=17) with a mean monthly income of about KES 5,078 (39$). All the participants had a medical cover mainly Social Health Authority (SHA) (78.1%, n=25). Most had been diagnosed at stage III (40.6%, n=13) and were on chemotherapy (75%, n=24). Only less than half reported to have comorbidity (31.25%, n=10) and all the participants did not belong to any support group (100%, n=32). Three main themes emerged: Hospital Environment, Psychosocial needs and Holistic distress. Conclusion and recommendation: These findings underscore a critical need for a more holistic approach that addressed these comprehensive needs to truly improve patient well-being. Therefore, healthcare providers should assess the unmet needs as they offer services to patients with PCa. The government should extend the scope of PCa management to include comprehensive support to the patients.