The PRO-ACT (Patient-led Research On sexual experience After Cancer Treatment) Survey is an important initiative aimed at improving the experiences of patients and their partners following prostate cancer treatment. By sharing your experiences, you will help contribute to valuable research that can shape better care and support for individuals across Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Why This Survey Matters
Prostate cancer treatment often affects more than just physical health—it can have a significant impact on mental well-being, relationships, and sexual health. These challenges are not always openly addressed. The PROACT Survey aims to better understand the realities faced by patients and their partners to help guide improvements in care and support services.
The findings will identify gaps in current services and communication, helping to develop resources that provide more holistic and effective support.
Survey links:
Patient Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/YGNKN5T
Partner Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2WC2J38
Designed by patients
This survey was designed with direct input from individuals who have experienced prostate cancer treatment. A patient previously treated for prostate cancer and a partner of a patient worked alongside a multidisciplinary steering committee of healthcare professionals, including urologists, oncologists, psychologists, and specialist nurses.
Led by co-Chief Investigators Mr Martin Sweeney (Patient Consultant, pictured above) and Dr Paul Kelly (Radiation Oncologist), the survey is conducted under the guidance of Cancer Trials Ireland.
Our Goals
The PRO-ACT Survey aims to:
- Explore Sexual and Emotional Well-Being: Understand how prostate cancer treatment affects intimacy, mental health, and quality of life for both patients and their partners.
- Identify Gaps in Care: Assess the effectiveness of current information and support systems regarding sexual side effects of treatment.
- Inform Improvements: Provide data to guide better healthcare services and create targeted resources for enhanced support.
- Focus on Patient Voices: Ensure the experiences of patients and their partners shape future healthcare practices.
Survey for partners
The PRO-ACT Partner Survey is specifically designed to explore the experiences of partners of prostate cancer patients. It recognises the essential role partners play in supporting patients while also acknowledging the personal challenges they may face, particularly around sexual well-being and mental health after treatment. This anonymous survey offers a unique opportunity to voice experiences and contribute to research that will inform better care and resources for all couples affected by prostate cancer. Your perspective is vital in shaping future services and improving support for both patients and their partners.
Who can take part?
If you are 18 or older and have undergone prostate cancer treatment on the island of Ireland, you are invited to participate in the patient survey. If you are the partner of someone who has undergone prostate cancer treatment on the island of Ireland, you are invited to take part in the partner survey.
Your insights will help paint a clearer picture of the challenges faced by patients and their partners, helping to improve care for others in the future.
Both surveys are confidential and take approximately 20-25 minutes to complete. Participation is entirely voluntary, and you can choose to stop at any point.
More information is available in the Patient Information Leaflet (For Patients) and the Patient Information Leaflet (For Partners).
Make your voice heard and make a difference
The PRO-ACT Survey is an opportunity to influence the future of prostate cancer care. By participating, you help ensure that healthcare services evolve to meet the needs of patients and their partners in a thoughtful and informed way.
For questions or more information, please contact us at proact@cancertrials.ie.
