The impact of digital interactive interventions on survivorship outcomes in prostate cancer: a systematic narrative review.

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most common male malignancy, with high survival yet substantial long-term challenges. Digital interventions provide scalable support for survivorship, though evidence of effectiveness remains mixed. This systematic narrative review aimed to identify and describe the effectiveness of digital interactive interventions on survivorship outcomes in PCa survivors.

METHODS

A systematic review using the narrative approach following the PRISMA guideline was performed. We searched databases of Web of Science, PubMed (including Medline), Scopus, Embase, and CINAHL without date restrictions, focusing on English-language interventional studies. Using the PICOS framework, two reviewers screened titles, abstracts, and full texts of retrieved studies. Risk of bias was assessed using RoB 2, ROBINS-I, and NIH tools. Due to heterogeneity of selected studies, data synthesis was performed narratively.

RESULTS

A total of 24 studies, published between 2012 and 2024 and employing diverse designs and interventions, were included from 2,422 retrieved records. Various interventions were used such as a web-based, mobile apps, telehealth coaching, telenursing, IoT-based programs, peer-led support, and online education. Urinary symptoms consistently improved, with some sustained benefits up to 12 months. Quality of life (QoL), psychological outcomes, self-efficacy, self-care capacity, and physical activity improved in most studies. Sexual function showed mixed results, with modest gains in some but no change or declines in others. Hormonal and bowel outcomes showed limited benefits. Sleep and fatigue results were inconsistent, with minor self-reported improvements but little objective change.

CONCLUSIONS

Digital interventions enhance urinary function, QoL, psychological well-being, and self-efficacy in PCa survivors, particularly through tailored, multi-component designs. However, their effects on sexual, hormonal, and bowel symptoms are inconsistent, with overall limited impacts. Advancing standardized outcomes, long-term trials, and hybrid digital-interpersonal models is essential to optimize the management of persistent symptoms and support equitable access.