What are the experiences of men affected by prostate cancer participating in an ecological momentary assessment study?

Background
Within the cluster of self-report methodologies, ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is a method used in health services research whereby a participant repeatedly reports on affect, behaviours, symptoms and cognitions as they occur in real time in the participants natural environment. However, little is known about the impact of participating in an EMA study on individuals’ experiences who are affected by prostate cancer.
Objectives
To explore the lived experiences of men affected by prostate participating in an EMA study and assess whether their participation in EMA alters their representation of their condition.
Methods
Participants (12n) were purposively recruited from two university teaching hospitals in Scotland. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with men affected by prostate cancer following the completion of EMA data collection. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Results
The lived experience of prostate cancer included six superordinate themes: isolation in the healthcare system, lack of shared care plans, informational support, coping with prostate cancer, fear of death and dying, and vocational rehabilitation. The organising theme electronic diary as an intervention included four superordinate themes: changing self-management behaviours, habitual experience, changing perceptions and diary in daily life.
Conclusion
We observed that men participating in the EMA study described several methodological complexities which needs addressed through future research.
Clinical Implications
Importantly, there is a need for the health system to prioritise research and develop a more holistic approach to prostate cancer care in line with men preferences and needs in the future.