A new study has brought encouraging news for men recovering from prostate cancer treatment. Research reveals that consistent aerobic and resistance exercise over a six-month period can lead to noticeable improvements in sexual function.
These findings are significant because prostate cancer treatments, while often lifesaving, frequently result in erectile dysfunction (ED) and other sexual health issues that persist long after recovery.
“The study suggests that exercise would be an effective intervention for men with prostate cancer who express concern about sexual dysfunction, and that exercise medicine should be considered a key part of their treatment,” said Daniel Galvão, PhD, director of the Exercise Medicine Research Institute at Edith Cowan University in Perth, Australia, in a press release.
Sexual Dysfunction: A Common and Lasting Issue After Prostate Cancer Treatment
Sexual health challenges, particularly ED, are nearly universal for men in the months immediately following prostate cancer treatments. While some men regain their previous levels of sexual function within a year, a significant portion continues to experience problems indefinitely.
“Erectile dysfunction is a major issue that affects prostate cancer patients, but it also results in relationship issues. Most of these patients aren’t offered health interventions to support their sexual function, and we are hoping to address this,” added Dr. Galvão.
This persistent issue not only impacts physical health but often places emotional and relational strain on men and their partners. Until now, few non-pharmaceutical or non-surgical options have been presented as standard care for improving sexual health after prostate cancer treatment.
A Closer Look at the Study’s Design
The research involved 112 men diagnosed with prostate cancer, with an average participant age of 66. The men were randomly divided into three groups:
- One group engaged in a structured program combining supervised and self-directed aerobic and resistance training for six months.
- A second group followed the same exercise plan, with the addition of a one-time psychosexual education session covering stress management, coping strategies for cancer-related challenges, and goal-setting for sexual rehabilitation.
- The third group received standard medical care, without additional interventions.
The exercise regimen was carefully planned to target both cardiovascular and muscular fitness. Participants completed 20 to 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity—using treadmills, cycling machines, or rowing equipment—and performed six to eight resistance exercises for both upper and lower body muscle groups.
The workouts were scheduled three times a week, and participants were encouraged to supplement these sessions with additional physical activity to meet the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.
Key Findings: Measurable Improvements in Sexual Health and Fitness
The study yielded several noteworthy results:
- Erectile function improved by an average of 5.1 points on the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), a validated tool for assessing male sexual health. A change of at least 4 points is typically considered a clinically meaningful improvement.
- The positive effects of exercise were especially pronounced in men who had undergone radiotherapy and androgen deprivation therapy, compared to those who had a prostatectomy.
- Men who initially reported lower levels of sexual desire, satisfaction during intercourse, and overall sexual satisfaction benefitted the most from the exercise program.
- Regular exercise also contributed to maintaining lean muscle mass, reducing body fat accumulation, and enhancing overall physical strength.
- Interestingly, the psychosexual education session did not yield additional improvements in erectile function, suggesting that physical fitness alone was the key factor driving these changes.
Based on these insights, the researchers concluded that structured exercise programs should be integrated into prostate cancer care plans, particularly for men struggling with sexual dysfunction.
Why Exercise Helps: The Link Between Fitness, Blood Flow, and Erectile Function
The connection between cardiovascular health and sexual function is well-established, and this study adds further evidence to the growing body of research advocating exercise for men’s sexual health.
“These findings support earlier studies linking exercise to improved sexual function, as well as the overall link between cardiovascular health and sexual function,” said Michael Eisenberg, MD, a urologist at Stanford Health in Palo Alto, California, who was not involved in the study.
Past research has already shown that practices like yoga and regular exercise can improve erectile function in middle-aged and older men, including those with and without prostate cancer.
“Many men are motivated to recover function after prostatectomy. The study provides important information about an exercise strategy to help maximize postoperative sexual function,” added Dr. Eisenberg.
Medical experts believe the benefits of exercise are rooted in improved cardiovascular fitness and enhanced systemic circulation, both of which contribute to healthier blood flow.
“Improved blood flow should also translate into better erectile function,” Dr. Eisenberg noted.
Is Exercise Safe After Prostate Cancer Treatment?
While this research highlights significant benefits, it’s important for men to consult their healthcare providers before beginning any new fitness regimen, especially after cancer treatment.
“After treatment recovery, most men with prostate cancer are able to exercise. However, they should check with their doctor to understand if limitations exist and if so, how long they should limit themselves,” Dr. Eisenberg advised.
In conclusion, this study reinforces the growing understanding that exercise is not only safe for prostate cancer survivors but can also meaningfully enhance their quality of life by addressing common post-treatment complications like ED.
With such promising evidence, incorporating structured fitness programs into standard care for prostate cancer survivors could become a valuable tool in comprehensive recovery strategies.