A Noninterventional, Cross-Sectional Study to Assess Patient Prostate Cancer Treatment Preferences and Experiences in Europe.

Abstract

Introduction: Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist injection frequency does not affect prostate cancer treatment efficacy; however, it may influence treatment satisfaction, adherence, and overall healthcare utilization. This study addressed the limited information available on real-world patient experience with GnRH treatments by surveying a diverse population of patients with prostate cancer in Europe.

Methods: This noninterventional, cross-sectional study included adults with locally advanced or metastatic prostate cancer in Belgium, France, Italy, Spain, and the UK. Data were collected via a one-time self-administered electronic survey (October-December 2023) that assessed patient preferences for injection frequency, satisfaction, healthcare resource utilization, and involvement in treatment decision-making.

Results: Of 414 participants, 53.9% preferred a 6-month injection frequency, while 27.3% preferred a 3-month frequency. Among those receiving injections every 6 months, 77.0% were satisfied; 62.7% of those receiving injections every 3 months were satisfied. Two-thirds of participants (65.7%) were aware of different frequencies of injections. Among those who preferred a 3-month injection frequency, routine and perceived control over their disease were important factors, with 38.1% receiving injections at the same frequency as doctor visits. Among those preferring a 6-month frequency, convenience and routine were important; however, 7.2% indicated that their preference was based on a dislike or fear of injections. Of those with no preference, 60.3% indicated that this was because they deferred to their doctor's advice. Most patients required transport to their injection appointment, and of those who were employed, 79.2% required time off from work. Accompaniment to an injection appointment was also important, with 66.2% of patients never attending alone.

Conclusion: The high satisfaction rates, particularly among those receiving injections every 6 months, suggest that less-frequent injections may be more convenient and preferable for many patients. These insights can help to guide patient-centric care and treatment decisions in prostate cancer management.