# Developing a digital psychosocial support program for men with low-risk prostate cancer during active surveillance

## TL;DR

This paper describes the development of a digital support program to help men with low-risk prostate cancer manage the psychosocial challenges of active surveillance.

## Contribution

A novel digital self-management application was created using design thinking to improve psychosocial outcomes for men on active surveillance.

## Key findings

- A prototype app with features like lifestyle guidance and medical result tracking was developed and tested.
- User testing highlighted strengths in navigation and design, with suggestions for usability improvements.
- The program aims to enhance patient engagement and communication during active surveillance.

## Abstract

Active surveillance (AS) is a preferred treatment for men with low- to intermediate-risk prostate cancer, but its psychosocial impact presents challenges. This study used design thinking to develop a digital psychosocial support program aimed at improving quality of life and health outcomes for men on AS.

The design process followed five phases: Empathy, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test. Stakeholder interviews were conducted to generate a problem statement. Brainstorming in the ideation phase conceptualized a self-management application and a framework of the application's features was developed. A prototype was developed in close collaboration with end-users and experts. The testing phase included heuristic evaluations and feedback from patients and healthcare providers.

Interviews during the empathy phase highlighted the need for personalized care, timely information, and holistic and tailored support. The defined problem statement aimed at reducing the psychosocial burden and improving coping mechanisms during the first year of AS. Ideation involved multidisciplinary brainstorming sessions, resulting in the concept of a self-management application with features such as information, appointment preparation, self-reporting of medical results, lifestyle guidance, relaxation exercises, and communication tools. A prototype application was developed. Testing showed strengths in navigation and design, with recommendations for improving error handling and help documentation. Feedback led to refinements enhancing usability and clinical integration.

This study developed a patient-centered self-management application to address psychosocial challenges in AS. By fostering engagement, self-efficacy, and communication, the tool aims to improve outcomes in prostate cancer management. Future clinical studies will evaluate its effectiveness.

•Psychosocial support boosts resilience and wellbeing in prostate cancer patients on active surveillance.•E-health offers timely, accessible and cost-effective psychosocial support.•This study used design thinking to create a digital support program for men on active surveillance.•A user-tested self-management app was developed to ease burdens, boost engagement, and support collaboration.

Psychosocial support boosts resilience and wellbeing in prostate cancer patients on active surveillance.

E-health offers timely, accessible and cost-effective psychosocial support.

This study used design thinking to create a digital support program for men on active surveillance.

A user-tested self-management app was developed to ease burdens, boost engagement, and support collaboration.