Reducing Disparities in Urinary Control Symptoms for Minority Women
University of Chicago
Summary
The study is designed to address the disparity in available conservative/behavioral treatments for UI/LUTS. The program was developed by experts from urogynecology, psychology, and physical therapy then modified based on focus group feedback from racially minoritized women. The study team created a patient-centered, culturally adapted, self-directed, 8-week, home-based module for women with LUTS/UI. The SUPPORT program combines multiple evidence-based conservative treatments for LUTS/UI including cognitive behavioral therapy, behavioral modifications, and home physical therapy exercise. Progression through the home-based program is supported by research staff. This prospective interventional study aims to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the SUPPORT program and its impact on patient-centered treatment outcomes, while enabling comparisons across race and ethnicity. This approach will provide a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively deliver self-management strategies for pelvic floor disorders. At the start of the 8 week SUPPORT course participants will also be given access to a custom programmed GPT trained on the SUPPORT workbook and given instructions on empathetic communication techniques and assisting patients in performing the SUPPORT exercises as outlined in the program. At the end of 8 weeks patients will fill out a survey assessing the frequency of use and interactions with the LLM.
Description
Several recent large, population-based studies report that the prevalence of bothersome urinary incontinence (UI) and lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) ranges from 55-73%, and a woman's lifetime risk of surgery for pelvic floor disorders is 20%. In other words, one in every five women can expect to undergo surgery for UI or prolapse by age 80, underscoring the public health impact of these conditions. For perspective, a woman's lifetime risk of breast and lung cancer are 15% and 6%, respectively. Although the lifetime risk of UI/LUTS is significantly higher than that of breast cancer or lung…