13 By Dr. Rob Rutledge, Radiation Oncologist, and Dr. Gabriela Ilie, Endowed Scientist in Prostate Cancer Quality of Life Research, Dalhousie University. A transformative opportunity is now available for men in South Africa diagnosed with prostate cancer: participation in a free, evidence-based Phase 4 trial of the Prostate Cancer Patient Empowerment Program (PCPEP.org/za). What is PC-PEP? PC-PEP is a comprehensive, home-based, daily 6-month program designed to support men at any stage of prostate cancer care—from active surveillance to post-treatment recovery. It is suitable for patients scheduled (or not) for prostatectomy (RP), radiation therapy (RT) with or without hormone therapy (HT or ARAT), or active surveillance (AS). Delivered via 182 daily emails and short 5-minute videos, PC-PEP guides participants through: • Daily exercise routines: Aerobic and home-based strength training by video • Pelvic oor training: Three 10-minute video sessions daily • Stress reduction: Daily 10-minute relaxation techniques • Dietary advice and cooking videos • Healthy lifestyle coaching: sleep hygiene, and relationship support. • Optional peer support: Weekly buddy calls and monthly group videoconferences A 10-minute overview video is available on the program's website: www.PCPEP.org Is PC-PEP Effective? In a randomized controlled trial of 128 men undergoing RP or RT ± HT, PC-PEP demonstrated statistically and clinically signicant improvements in mental health (K10 scores) at 6 and 12 months compared to standard care. The results are published in European Urology. Additional analyses show benets in urinary symptoms, quality of life, and reduced healthcare visits. Feedback from both patients and clinicians has been overwhelmingly positive. Empowering South African Men with Prostate Cancer: Join the Free PC-PEP Phase 4 Trial
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NTIyOTQ=