Androgen deprivation therapy educational program: A Canadian true nth initiative.

Abstract

243 Background: Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is commonly prescribed for advanced prostate cancer (PCa) patients, but ADT has many side effects that can impair patients’ quality of life. In various Canadian cities, we are running an educational program to help PCa patients and their partners deal with the side effects of ADT, and maintain a strong relationship with each other while on ADT. Methods: Patients, who are about to start or have been on ADT, and their partners are invited to attend an educational program. Each patient is given a copy of the book Androgen Deprivation Therapy: An essential guide for men with prostate cancer and their partners (Wassersug et al., 2014) and attends a 1.5 hour educational class, where they learn strategies for managing ADT side effects and how to effectively make healthier lifestyle changes using goal-setting exercises. At the end of the class, participants are given the option to attend a monthly follow-up session. To evaluate the effectiveness of the program, participants are asked to complete questionnaire package before attending the class and again 2-3 months later. Results: As of August 2015, 179 patients and 113 partners have attended the ADT Educational Program at Victoria, Vancouver, and Calgary. About 40% of patients returned for the follow-up session. 62 attendees participated in the research evaluation portion of the program. Uniquely designed for this study, the questionnaire package assesses ADT side effect frequency, bother associated with side effects, use of management strategies, and self-efficacy regarding side effect management. An assessment of physical activity and relationship adjustment, and feedback about the class are also included. Conclusions: Patients and partners appreciate being informed about ADT side effects managements and how to make healthier lifestyle changes while on ADT. It remains to be seen how effective the program is in limiting the bother from ADT side effects and helping couples maintain a strong dyadic relationship in the fact of the challenges brought on by ADT. Good enrollment in the in-person program in the 3 cities has propelled the development of the program in Halifax and Toronto starting in fall 2015, and an online version to be available in early 2016.