Qualitative Assessment of Attitudes Towards Telerehabilitation in Patients with Metastatic Prostate Cancer

Stud Health Technol Inform. 2024 Nov 22;321:104-108. doi: 10.3233/SHTI241072.

ABSTRACT

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality among men. Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) has been shown to increase survival in men with metastatic PC. Despite its efficacy, ADT's long-term use adversely impacts quality of life (QoL) due to multiple side effects. Multimodal cancer rehabilitation (CR) programs improve QoL but face limited uptake. This study explores perspectives of patients with metastatic PC on a Home Automated Telemanagement (HAT) system using semi-structured interviews. Findings indicate that patients appreciated the ease of use, guided exercise content, and progress tracking features of the HAT system. Significant benefits in symptom management, cognitive support, and QoL improvements were reported, suggesting the program's potential for long-term health management. In summary, the HAT system is a promising tool for supporting CR in patients with metastatic PC. Future developments should address technical issues, incorporate motivational elements, and enhance user feedback to optimize patient engagement and satisfaction.

PMID:39575789 | DOI:10.3233/SHTI241072