Perspectives and Requirements of Patients with Prostate Cancer on Mobile Health Interventions During Androgen Deprivation Therapy: A Descriptive Qualitative Study

ABSTRACT

Aim

To explore the perceptions of patients with prostate cancer undergoing androgen deprivation therapy towards mobile health interventions.

Design

The study employed a qualitative descriptive design.

Methods

Seventeen participants were recruited from tertiary care hospitals from November 2022 to June 2023. The collected data were subsequently analysed using a content analysis approach.

Results

The main themes were facilitators, barriers, information needs, emotional and social needs, and self-management needs. Facilitators for using mobile health included support from healthcare professionals and family, competitive design features and user-friendly interfaces. Barriers included negative past experiences with technology and a satisfactory current state of health. Informational support included those patients who expressed a desire for timely, accurate information integrated with traditional Chinese medical principles. Regarding emotional support, patients emphasised their independence, preferring not to burden family and friends, showing disinterest in mindfulness and relaxation therapies, and generally disliking online interactions with fellow patients. For self-management, medication reminders and rehabilitation guidance were seen as vital tools to enhance supportive care.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of customising mobile healthcare applications to meet unique needs among patients with prostate cancer and enhance their engagement and satisfaction. Understanding their specific preferences enables the development of more effective mobile healthcare applications.

Reporting Method

The COREQ checklist.