Evaluating the contribution of virtual peer-led support to comprehensive prostate cancer (PCa ) care: The AnCan experience.

Abstract

58 Background: Comprehensive care for PCa patients extends well beyond selecting therapies based on available guidelines. Patients should be supported to understand the disease, diagnostics, optimal treatment strategies, side-effects, avert morbidity and improve diet and exercise while combating stress. We present data supporting that patient participation in a video peer-led support group is integral to attaining these goals. Face-to-face peer groups are not readily accessible to many patients. AnCan has hosted virtual meeting support groups across the spectrum of malignancies and stages since 2010. We offer navigation, advocacy, and educational webinars. PCa is our cornerstone, including groups focusing on active surveillance/ high risk/recurrent/advanced disease, as well as under-60 patients. Methods: During spring 2021, a survey questionnaire focused on all disease stages was sent to 1174 men in the AnCan database; a second survey focused on active surveillance was send to 1200 active surveillance patients in the AnCan, Active Surveillance Patients International and Prostate Cancer International databases. We evaluated patient experience and how information acquired informed their treatment, interactions with their medical team, lifestyle, stress, and quality of life (QoL). Results: 238 responses were received for the AnCan survey, and 165 for the active aurveillance Survey, totaling. 389 independent responses. 228 (33%) were on Active Surveillance for low risk, and 93 (23%) had advanced PCa, largely distributed across North America. 154 (40%) repeatedly attend AnCan meetings. All (100%) indicated that meetings helped understand disease, navigate their treatment options, improve interaction with their medical teams and improve their quality of life (QoL). In the AnCan Suvey, 48 (19%) patients opted to move to different care teams and 32 (13 %) of those elected PCa specialists. 138 (58%) improved exercise, 90 (38%) improved diet, and 119 (50% ) reported stress reduction. 202 patients (85%) felt the groups to be welcoming, 102 (43%) connected with others, and 70 (30%) developed friendships. Of those who attend Active Surveillance meetings, 75 (68%) said that attendance helped them be their own best advocate, while 25 (23%) said that attendance informed them of new insights and treatments. Conclusions: The AnCan Support Group model increases patient knowledge, positively impacts treatment planning, and promotes lifestyle improvements while providing support to reduce stress, boosts confidence in navigating the disease, and improves QoL. AnCan empower patients to self-advocate and improve their disease experience. This is integral to optimize physician/patient interactions and improve outcomes. We advocate that virtual peer group attendance, based on our model, be included in NCCN treatment recommendations for PCa patients, especially with advanced disease.