Continence, Sexual Function, Fitness and the Health of Men After Surgery for Prostate Cancer
Continence, Sexual and Metabolic Health Programming to Promote Prostate Cancer Wellness for Life (CONTROL4LIFE)
About This Trial
- This study is for adults with prostate cancer who are scheduled to have surgery to remove their prostate.
- Researchers want to track and better understand how patients recover their bladder control, sexual function, physical fitness, and overall quality of life after surgery.
- If you join, you will receive helpful resources on pelvic floor exercises and recovery care, along with the option to participate in a 12-week exercise program.
- Before signing up, you should know that you must be able to do light physical activity, have access to the internet and a computer or smart device, and not currently be working with a specialized pelvic floor therapist.
More Information
- The Continence, Sexual and Metabolic Health (CONTROL 4 LIFE) study will evaluate the recovery of continence, sexual function, and health outcomes in individuals who have undergone surgery for prostate cancer.
- The purpose of this study is to better understand the timelines of recovery for these outcomes after surgery for prostate cancer.
- As part of this study, all participants will receive resources offered by Alberta Health Services regarding pre- and post-prostatectomy care, including information on pelvic floor exercises.
- Through the CONTROL 4 LIFE study, the investigators will also be evaluating outcomes related to physical activity, fitness and quality of life.
- These assessments will enable the investigators to better understand how well and how long it takes for individuals to recover after surgery for prostate cancer.
Who Can Enroll
- Age Range: 18 years and older
- Gender: Male
- Who This Trial is For: This study is for adults with prostate cancer who are scheduled to have surgery to remove their prostate.
Study Details
- Start Date: February 27, 2024
- Lead Sponsor: University of Alberta
Full Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria
- have a diagnosis of prostate cancer (stage I to IV);
- be scheduled for a prostatectomy surgery (any surgical approach);
- have no restriction to participate in at least mild levels of physical activity, as confirmed by the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q+);
- speak and understand English.
- adult: 18 years of age or older
- optional exercise component: willing and able to commit to the 12-week intervention
Exclusion Criteria
- have any medical conditions that may interfere with continence (i.e. neurological diseases);
- have any contraindications to exercise testing or training;
- have recent (>6 months) modifications to any medication aiming to reduce urinary incontinence (i.e. Myrbetric);
- do not have regular access to the internet and a smart device or a computer at home/ at their community center;
- are already receiving a pelvic floor exercise program through a pelvic floor physical therapist from their community.
Treatments
- Behavioral: Pelvic floor exercise program
- Behavioral: General exercise
- Behavioral: Physical Activity Counseling

