Dr. Richard Wassersug
Understanding Prostate Cancer Treatment and the Impact on Couples
I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Richard Wassersug, an Honorary Professor in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of British Columbia in Canada and a leading researcher and advocate focused on the quality-of-life impacts of prostate cancer treatment, particularly androgen deprivation therapy (ADT).
What stood out most in our conversations was his focus on the emotional, relational, and identity changes that affect not just the patient, but the partner as well.🌿 Caregiving Is a Shared Experience 🌿
One of the most important reminders from our conversation is that prostate cancer is not experienced by one person alone.
While treatment is directed at the patient, the emotional and practical impact is shared by both partners. Caregivers often carry responsibilities that are not always visible—managing appointments, tracking changes, and holding emotional space.
Over time, this can lead to exhaustion, isolation, and a sense that their own needs have been set aside.
Recognizing caregiving as a shared experience—not a one-sided role—helps protect the relationship and ensures that both people feel seen and supported.
Richard:
“This is not something only one person is going through. Even though the treatment is happening to the patient, the experience affects both people.”
🌿 Understanding ADT Beyond the Medical Facts🌿
Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is commonly used in prostate cancer treatment and can be highly effective in controlling the disease.
What is less often discussed are the day-to-day changes that come with it, including loss of libido, fatigue, mood shifts, and changes in identity.
These effects can influence how a man sees himself and how he connects within the relationship.
Understanding these changes ahead of time can help reduce confusion and prevent misinterpretation.
🌿 Supporting Your Partner Through Change 🌿
Partners are often the first to notice subtle changes—less engagement, emotional distance, or shifts in affection.
These moments can feel personal, but they are often connected to treatment.
Support means staying present, keeping communication open, and naming what is happening without blame.
🌿 Intimacy and Identity After Treatment 🌿
When intimacy is defined only by sexual function, treatment can feel like it has taken something essential away.
But intimacy also includes closeness, connection, and shared presence.
Couples who expand their understanding of intimacy often find that connection is still possible.
Richard:
“When couples expand their definition of intimacy, they often find that connection is still very much possible.”
🌿 Estradiol, ADT Education, and Ongoing Support🌿
Dr. Richard Wassersug shared the following resources and programs to help patients and partners better understand androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and explore additional support.
Life on ADT
https://lifeonadt.com/
A patient-focused resource offering insight into the lived experience of ADT, including physical, emotional, and relationship changes.
Estradiol Initiative
https://estradiolinitiative.org/
An initiative focused on increasing awareness and research around transdermal estradiol as an alternative approach to traditional hormone therapy.
Androgen Deprivation Therapy: An Essential Guide for Prostate Cancer Patients and Their Loved Ones (3rd Edition)
https://www.springerpub.com/androgen-deprivation-therapy-9780826184023.html
This comprehensive guide provides practical, research-based information for both patients and partners. It was the First Place Winner of the American Journal of Nursing 2024 Book Award in Consumer Health.
ADT Educational Program (Prostate Cancer Centre)
https://form-renderer-app.donorperfect.io/give/prostatecancercentre
This educational program is offered free of charge and includes access to ADT-focused learning and support resources.
If you choose to donate to support the program:
Select “clinical care” from the drop-down menu
Add: “In support of the ADT Program”
🌻 A Final Note 🌻
These conversations are not always easy, but they matter.
Understanding both the medical and emotional aspects of treatment can help you and your partner move forward with more clarity, compassion, and connection.
You can explore additional caregiver tools and support here:
https://debraothman.com/start-here