ENHANCING RECOVERY IN ATHLETES WITH BLADDER CANCER: THE IMPACT OF TRANSURETHRAL HOLMIUM LASER RESECTION COMBINED WITH PSYCHOLOGICAL COUNSELING ON OXIDATIVE STRESS, EMOTIONAL WELL-BEING, AND QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to assess the impact of transurethral holmium laser resection combined with psychological counseling on oxidative stress, anxiety, depression, mood, and quality of life, with a particular focus on athletes diagnosed with bladder cancer. Methods: We enrolled 69 athletic patients diagnosed with bladder cancer in a randomized controlled trial. Participants were divided into a control group (34 patients) receiving standard care and an intervention group (35 patients) receiving standard care plus psychological counseling tailored to athletes. We evaluated changes in oxidative stress indicators, anxiety, depression, mood, and quality of life metrics. Results: Post-intervention, both groups exhibited significant improvements in anxiety and depression scores from baseline (P < 0.05), with greater improvements observed in the intervention group (P < 0.05). The intervention group also showed more significant enhancements in physical well-being, psychological state, environmental quality, and social relationships (P < 0.05). Additionally, this group exhibited a marked decrease in oxidative stress, evidenced by increased levels of antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPX), and a reduction in Malondialdehyde (MDA) content (P < 0.05), crucial for athletes' recovery and performance. Conclusion: Integrating psychological counseling with surgical treatment for athletic patients undergoing transurethral holmium laser resection for bladder cancer not only mitigates psychological distress but also significantly improves oxidative stress profiles and overall quality of life. These findings advocate for a holistic treatment approach that considers the mental and physical health demands of athletes facing significant health challenges like cancer.