Developing and pre-testing an interactive decision aid tool for men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to develop and pre-test an interactive decision-aid for men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer. A literature review of availability and effectiveness of empirically tested decision aids was done and then a prototype of the decision aid made. Semi-structured interviews with 12 men (65-80) diagnosed with localized prostate cancer were conducted to get feedback on ideas, content, usability and layout of the decision aid. Four of the participants had undergone active surveillance, four surgery/radiation therapy and four were newly diagnosed and had not yet undergone treatment. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using content analysis. Participants valued the decision aid and found the accessibility of the information and the decision task helpful. Their points on improving the decision aid concerned the length of the text and flow. Also they wanted to make exercise and lifestyle recommendation a part of the decision aid as well as highlighting the benefit of joining a support group for men with prostate cancer. Four major themes submerged 1) usability and design, 2) content and knowledge, 3) deciding factors of decision-making and 4) social support. The extensive and realistic information about side effects of surgery/radiation therapy was something that the participants thought was most needed from usual care as well as an unbiased presentation of treatment options. The decision aid is now under revision and will be tested in a randomized clinical trial when it is completed.