A Non-Randomized Comparison of Online and In-Person Formats of the Canadian Androgen Deprivation Therapy Educational Program: Impacts on Side Effects, Bother, and Self-Efficacy

Although Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) is effective in controlling prostate cancer (PCa) and increasing survival, it is associated with a myriad of side effects that cause significant morbidity. Previous research has shown that PCa patients starting on ADT are neither fully informed nor well-equipped to manage the breadth of ADT's side effects. The ADT Educational Program (a 1.5 h interactive class plus a book) was developed as an evidence-based resource for patients dealing with ADT. Our aim here was to compare the efficacy of an online version of the class with a previously assessed in-person version of the class. Using mixed MANOVAs within a non-randomized comparison design, we assessed: (1) changes in patients' experiences of self-efficacy to manage and bother associated with side effects approximately 10 weeks after attending a class, and (2) potential differences in these variables between online and in-person class formats. Side effect bother decreased from pre- to post-class but did not differ between in-person ( = 94) and online ( = 137) class cohorts. While self-efficacy to manage side effects was slightly higher post-class in both cohorts, the increase was not statistically significant. Average self-efficacy ratings were significantly higher among in-person versus online class participants ( < 0.05; η = 0.128). Both online and in-person classes are associated with a significant reduction in the severity of side effect bother reported by PCa patients, suggesting non-inferiority of online versus in-person formats. Online classes offer greater accessibility to the program for patients outside the reach of in-person classes, increasing the availability of the program to more PCa patients and family members across Canada.