Effects of an app-assisted self-management intervention for urinary incontinence on self-efficacy and related outcomes in men with prostate cancer: A randomized controlled feasibility trial

Purpose

To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of an app-assisted self-management intervention for urinary incontinence (App-SMI-UI) in men with prostate cancer.

Methods

We recruited men (n = 85) who had been diagnosed with prostate cancer and experienced urinary incontinence following radical prostatectomy. Participants were randomly assigned to the self-management group (n = 43) or the attrition control group (n = 42). The self-management group underwent a 12-week App-SMI-UI while the control group received a single session of multimedia dietary information. Data was collected at baseline, week 12, and week 16. The variables measured were cancer-related self-efficacy, urinary symptoms, social participation, demoralization, resilience, and satisfaction with the intervention.

Results

Compared to the control group, the self-management group had fewer urinary symptoms and a higher willingness to engage in and satisfaction with social activity participation at week 12. By week 16, the self-management group exhibited higher cancer-related self-efficacy, greater participation in interpersonal relationship activities, and continued willingness to engage in and satisfaction with social activity participation.

Conclusion

The App-SMI-UI contributes to improving urinary symptoms, self-efficacy, and social participation among men with prostate cancer. Healthcare providers can use self-management programs to manage urinary incontinence and support prostate cancer men.