The impact of combining human and online supportive resources for prostate cancer patients

Background Prostate cancer patients’ needs for information and support have been previously addressed by both mentoring and interactive services. Objective To determine whether combining computer-based support with a human cancer mentor would benefit prostate cancer patients more than either intervention alone. Methods Newly diagnosed prostate cancer patients from 3 centers were randomly assigned to receive either: a web-based system of information and support; or telephone and e-mail support from a trained cancer information mentor; or both interventions. Results The combined condition improved several quality-of-life outcomes more than the individual interventions alone, but these results were few and scattered. Limitations Offering Internet (computer) access to all potential subjects may have made some computer nonusers less likely to participate, biasing the sample toward relatively advantaged men. Conclusions Combining human and computer-based interventions did not produce the expected much stronger benefits to patients. Given the costs involved, the computer-based system alone is likely preferable.