Masculinities of prostate cancer survivors: a qualitative metasynthesis

Abstract

Objective: To identify the production of knowledge in the health literature about masculinities in the context of prostate cancer survivors and to analyze the implications of this relationship for the maintenance of health care. Method: Metasynthesis of 21 qualitative studies, performed in the LILACS, MEDLINE and CINAHL databases, with the scientific descriptors of DeCS and MeSH terms masculinity, prostate neoplasms. Results: Illness due to prostate cancer imposes numerous changes in male relationships, especially the non-dominance of the body and vulnerability to treatments and their consequences. The cultural values surrounding the disease and the hegemonic behaviors have implications for the health care of men. Conclusion: It has been shown that this relationship makes it difficult to communicate about the disease, marital relationships and family support, mainly influencing neglect of health. The knowledge produced is useful to promote the engagement of men in strengthening care.