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Copp T, Thompson R, Hammarberg K, Lensen S, Augustine L, Doust J, Peate M, Cvejic E, Mol BW, Lieberman D, McCaffery KJ. Attitudes, knowledge and practice regarding the anti-müllerian hormone test among general practitioners and reproductive specialists: A cross-sectional study. BJOG 2024; 131:1072-1079. [PMID: 38196321 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/10/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe clinicians' attitudes, knowledge and practice relating to the anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) test. DESIGN Cross-sectional nationwide survey. SETTING Australia. POPULATION OR SAMPLE A total of 362 general practitioners (GPs), gynaecologists and reproductive specialists. METHODS Clinicians were recruited through relevant professional organisations, with data collected from May 2021 to April 2022. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Clinicians' attitudes, knowledge and practice relating to the AMH test, measured using multiple choice, Likert scales and open-ended items. RESULTS Fifteen percent of GPs (n = 27) and 40% of gynaecologists and other specialists (n = 73) order at least one AMH test per month. Specialists reported raising the idea of testing most of the time, whereas GPs reported that patient request was more common. Half of clinicians lacked confidence interpreting (n = 182, 51%) and explaining (n = 173, 48%) an AMH result to their patients. Five percent (n = 19) believed the test was moderately/very useful in predicting natural conception/birth and 22% (n = 82) believed the same for predicting premature menopause, despite evidence that the test cannot reliably predict either. Forty percent (n = 144) had previously ordered the test to help with reproductive planning and 21% (n = 75) to provide reassurance about fertility. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians reported use of AMH testing in clinical circumstances not supported by the evidence. With the proliferation of direct-to-consumer testing, efforts to support clinicians in the judicious use of testing and effectively navigating patient requests are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Copp
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachel Thompson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Karin Hammarberg
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sarah Lensen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lidiya Augustine
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jenny Doust
- Australian Women and Girls' Health Research Centre, School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michelle Peate
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Women's Hospital, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Erin Cvejic
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ben W Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Devora Lieberman
- City Fertility Centre Pty Ltd, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kirsten J McCaffery
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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Copp T, Pickles K, Smith J, Hersch J, Johansson M, Doust J, McKinn S, Sharma S, Hardiman L, Nickel B. Marketing empowerment: how corporations co-opt feminist narratives to promote non-evidence based health interventions. BMJ 2024; 384:e076710. [PMID: 38355160 DOI: 10.1136/bmj-2023-076710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Copp
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Wiser Healthcare, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kristen Pickles
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Wiser Healthcare, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jenna Smith
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Wiser Healthcare, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jolyn Hersch
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Wiser Healthcare, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Minna Johansson
- Global Center for Sustainable Healthcare, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jenny Doust
- Australian Women and Girls' Health Research Centre, School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Shannon McKinn
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sweekriti Sharma
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Wiser Healthcare, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Institute for Musculoskeletal Health, Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Brooke Nickel
- Sydney Health Literacy Lab, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Wiser Healthcare, Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Nagappan A, Kalokairinou L, Wexler A. Ethical issues in direct-to-consumer healthcare: A scoping review. PLOS DIGITAL HEALTH 2024; 3:e0000452. [PMID: 38349902 PMCID: PMC10863864 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pdig.0000452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
An increasing number of health products and services are being offered on a direct-to-consumer (DTC) basis. To date, however, scholarship on DTC healthcare products and services has largely proceeded in a domain-specific fashion, with discussions of relevant ethical challenges occurring within specific medical specialties. The present study therefore aimed to provide a scoping review of ethical issues raised in the academic literature across types of DTC healthcare products and services. A systematic search for relevant publications between 2011-2021 was conducted on PubMed and Google Scholar using iteratively developed search terms. The final sample included 86 publications that discussed ethical issues related to DTC healthcare products and services. All publications were coded for ethical issues mentioned, primary DTC product or service discussed, type of study, year of publication, and geographical context. We found that the types of DTC healthcare products and services mentioned in our sample spanned six categories: neurotechnology (34%), testing (20%), in-person services (17%), digital health tools (14%), telemedicine (13%), and physical interventions (2%). Ethical arguments in favor of DTC healthcare included improved access (e.g., financial, geographical; 31%), increased autonomy (29%), and enhanced convenience (16%). Commonly raised ethical concerns included insufficient regulation (72%), questionable efficacy and quality (70%), safety and physical harms (66%), misleading advertising claims (56%), and privacy (34%). Other frequently occurring ethical concerns pertained to financial costs, targeting vulnerable groups, informed consent, and potential burdens on healthcare providers, the healthcare system, and society. Our findings offer insights into the cross-cutting ethical issues associated with DTC healthcare and underscore the need for increased interdisciplinary communication to address the challenges they raise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Nagappan
- Department of Health Policy and Management, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, United States of America
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Louiza Kalokairinou
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Center for Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Anna Wexler
- Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
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Villalobos-Quesada M, Ho K, Chavannes NH, Talboom-Kamp EPWA. Direct-to-patient digital diagnostics in primary care: Opportunities, challenges, and conditions necessary for responsible digital diagnostics. Eur J Gen Pract 2023; 29:2273615. [PMID: 37947197 PMCID: PMC10653613 DOI: 10.1080/13814788.2023.2273615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diagnostics are increasingly shifting to patients' home environment, facilitated by new digital technologies. Digital diagnostics (diagnostic services enabled by digital technologies) can be a tool to better respond to the challenges faced by primary care systems while aligning with patients' and healthcare professionals' needs. However, it needs to be clarified how to determine the success of these interventions. OBJECTIVES We aim to provide practical guidance to facilitate the adequate development and implementation of digital diagnostics. STRATEGY Here, we propose the quadruple aim (better patient experiences, health outcomes and professional satisfaction at lower costs) as a framework to determine the contribution of digital diagnostics in primary care. Using this framework, we critically analyse the advantages and challenges of digital diagnostics in primary care using scientific literature and relevant casuistry. RESULTS Two use cases address the development process and implementation in the Netherlands: a patient portal for reporting laboratory results and digital diagnostics as part of hybrid care, respectively. The third use case addresses digital diagnostics for sexually transmitted diseases from an international perspective. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that although evidence is gathering, the often-expected value of digital diagnostics needs adequate scientific evidence. We propose striving for evidence-based 'responsible digital diagnostics' (sustainable, ethically acceptable, and socially desirable digital diagnostics). Finally, we provide a set of conditions necessary to achieve it. The analysis and actionable guidance provided can improve the chance of success of digital diagnostics interventions and overall, the positive impact of this rapidly developing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Villalobos-Quesada
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, National eHealth Living Lab, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Kendall Ho
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Cloud Innovation Centre for Community Health and Wellbeing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Niels H. Chavannes
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, National eHealth Living Lab, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Esther PWA Talboom-Kamp
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, National eHealth Living Lab, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Johnson A, Thompson R, Nickel B, Shih P, Hammarberg K, Copp T. Websites Selling Direct-to-Consumer Anti-Mullerian Hormone Tests. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2330192. [PMID: 37603332 PMCID: PMC10442712 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.30192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance The recent provision of direct-to-consumer (DTC) Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) testing in several countries has been contentious, particularly due to concerns about judicious testing and informed consent. Objective To describe and analyze information on websites that sell DTC AMH tests. Design, Setting, and Participants Qualitative study including content analysis of text information from websites in multiple countries that sell AMH tests DTC. The top 50 search results from 4 different internet search strings were captured and reviewed for eligibility. Data were extracted in March 2022 and analyzed from April 2022 to July 2023. Main outcomes and measures Themes and categories were derived from the website content using a conventional inductive approach, with a particular focus on information content, quality and accuracy, as well as the tone and language used. Results Twenty-seven websites across 7 different countries formed the sample for analysis. Information varied considerably across websites and was organized into 6 overarching categories: (1) whether a test description was included (25 websites [93%]); (2) statements about what the test can do, which included indicating ovarian reserve (26 websites [96%]) and indicating likelihood of conceiving (20 websites [74%]); (3) statements about the usefulness of the test result, which included enabling women to adjust their reproductive timeline (11 websites [41%]) and determining whether egg freezing was a viable option (8 websites [30%]); (4) blood collection method (ie, through a laboratory or an at-home sample); (5) promotion tactics, such as stating the convenience of testing (24 websites [89%]) and using language promoting empowerment and control (7 websites [26%]); and (6) statements about limitations of the test, which included polycystic ovary syndrome falsely inflating AMH levels (13 websites [48%]) and that it cannot accurately predict chances of conceiving (9 websites [33%]). Conclusion and relevance In this qualitative study including content analysis, most websites selling DTC AMH tests included false and misleading claims which might lead consumers to purchase an AMH test in the belief that it can reliably predict fertility potential and age of menopause. Depending on the test result, this may in turn lead to misplaced anxiety or reassurance about one's fertility and modifications to subsequent conception or contraceptive plans and behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Johnson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Rachel Thompson
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brooke Nickel
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Patti Shih
- Faculty of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities, School of Health and Society, Australian Centre for Health Engagement, Evidence and Values, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Karin Hammarberg
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tessa Copp
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Peipert BJ, Harris BS, Selter JH, Ramey-Collier K, Blenden R, Unnithan S, Erkanli A, Price TM. Direct-to-consumer fertility testing: utilization and perceived utility among fertility patients and reproductive endocrinologists. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:642-650. [PMID: 36610890 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2022] [Revised: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the utilization of direct-to-consumer fertility tests (DTCFT) among fertility patients? How does the perceived utility of DTCFT differ between patients and reproductive endocrinologists (REI)? DESIGN Infertility patients visiting the Duke Fertility Center between December 2020 and December 2021 were sent an electronic invitation to participate in a patient survey. Members of the Society of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility were also sent e-mail invitations to participate in the REI survey. DTCFT were defined as tests not ordered by a physician or performed at a physician's office, including calendar methods of ovulation prediction, urinary ovulation prediction kits, basal body temperature (BBT) monitoring, hormone analysis, ovarian reserve testing and semen analysis. Patients and REI were asked how likely they were to recommend a given DTCFT, on a 0-10 Likert scale. RESULTS In total, 425 patients (response rate 50.5%) and 178 REI (response rate 21.4%) completed the surveys. Patients reported the utilization of calendar methods of ovulation prediction (83.8%), urinary ovulation prediction (78.8%), BBT monitoring (30.8%), hormone analysis (15.3%), semen analysis (10.1%) and ovarian reserve testing (9.2%). REI rated the utility of all DTCFT significantly lower than patients did (average discordance -4.2, P < 0.001), except for urinary ovulation prediction, which REI gave a significantly higher score (discordance +1.0, P < 0.001). Prior pregnancy was significantly associated with home ovulation prediction utilization among patients (adjusted odds ratio 3.21, 95% confidence interval 1.2-9.83). CONCLUSIONS Methods of ovulation prediction are commonly used by fertility patients. Significant discordance exists in the perceived utility of DTCFT between patients and REI. Patient education and guidelines are needed to better inform individuals considering DTCFT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin J Peipert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC, USA
| | - Benjamin S Harris
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC, USA
| | - Jessica H Selter
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC, USA
| | - Khaila Ramey-Collier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC, USA
| | - Randa Blenden
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC, USA
| | - Shakthi Unnithan
- Biostatistics Core, Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC, USA
| | - Alaattin Erkanli
- Biostatistics Core, Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC, USA
| | - Thomas M Price
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham NC, USA.
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Ao J, Qiu W, Huo X, Wang Y, Wang W, Zhang Q, Liu Z, Zhang J. Paraben exposure and couple fecundity: a preconception cohort study. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:726-738. [PMID: 36749105 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is pre-conception exposure to parabens associated with fecundity in couples of childbearing age? SUMMARY ANSWER Paraben exposure in female partners was associated with reduced couple fecundity and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) might be one of the possible mediators. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The reproductive toxicity of parabens, a class of widely used preservatives, has been suggested but evidence regarding their effects on couple fecundity is scarce. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION In this couple-based prospective cohort study, a total of 884 pre-conception couples who participated in the Shanghai Birth Cohort between 2013 and 2015 were included. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Concentrations of six parabens were measured in urine samples collected from couples. Malondialdehyde, C-reactive protein, and AMH were assessed in female partners. The outcomes included couple fecundability (time-to-pregnancy, TTP) and infertility (TTP > 12 menstrual cycles). Partner-specific and couple-based models were applied to estimate the associations. The joint effect of paraben mixture on couple fecundity was estimated by quantile-based g-computation (q-gcomp). Mediation analysis was used to assess the mediating roles of oxidative stress, inflammation and ovarian reserve. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 525 couples (59.4%) conceived spontaneously. In the partner-specific model, propyl paraben (PrP), butyl paraben (BuP), and heptyl paraben (HeP) in female partners were associated with reduced fecundability (fecundability odds ratio (95% CI): 0.96 (0.94-0.98) for PrP; 0.90 (0.87-0.94) for BuP; 0.42 (0.28-0.65) for HeP) and increased risk of infertility (rate ratio (95% CI): 1.06 (1.03-1.10) for PrP; 1.14 (1.08-1.21) for BuP; 1.89 (1.26-2.83) for HeP). Similar associations were observed in the couple-based model. AMH played a significant mediation role in the association (average causal mediation effect (95% CI): 0.001 (0.0001-0.003)). Paraben exposure in male partners was not associated with couple fecundity. The joint effect of paraben mixture on couple fecundity was non-significant. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Self-reported pregnancy and single urine sample may lead to misclassification. The mediation analysis is limited in that levels of sex hormones were not measured. The inclusion of women with irregular menstrual cycles might affect the results. It is possible that the observed association was due to reverse causation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the first study to assess the effects of paraben exposure on couple fecundity in Asians. Given the widespread exposure to parabens in couples of childbearing age, the present findings may have important public health implications. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported in part by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (41991314), the Shanghai Science and Technology Development Foundation (22YF1426700), the Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (21410713500), and the Shanghai Municipal Health Commission (2020CXJQ01). All authors declare no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junjie Ao
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Qiu
- School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaona Huo
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuqing Wang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wenjuan Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qianlong Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiwei Liu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Ministry of Education-Shanghai Key Laboratory of Children's Environmental Health, Xinhua Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,School of Public Health, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.,International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Jesse E, Thirumavalavan N, Loeb A. Increase in Direct-to-Consumer Telemedicine in Urology. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2022; 14:119-127. [PMID: 35966236 PMCID: PMC9362147 DOI: 10.1007/s11930-022-00332-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Direct-to-consumer telemedicine has vastly expanded in recent years, and urologic conditions are a common target for these companies. We aim to identify the urologic conditions being treated by direct-to-consumer telemedicine platforms and review the feasibility of adherence to evidence-based practice guidelines via this relatively new healthcare model. Recent Findings Erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, testosterone deficiency, and male infertility are being treated with direct-to-consumer telemedicine. Such platforms treating erectile dysfunction perform modestly in practice guideline adherence. Guidelines-based treatment of other urologic conditions via telemedicine is feasible, however, the treatment of these conditions through popular direct-to-consumer telemedicine platforms is largely unstudied. Summary The impact of direct-to-consumer telemedicine on the field of urology is vast and likely to continue to grow. Future studies should inspect direct-to-consumer telemedicine companies’ practice patterns and treatment outcomes to ensure the field’s standards of care are being met. Guidelines specific to the treatment of various urologic conditions via telemedicine are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin Jesse
- Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue Lakeside Building Suite, Cleveland, OH 4954 USA
| | - Nannan Thirumavalavan
- Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue Lakeside Building Suite, Cleveland, OH 4954 USA
| | - Aram Loeb
- Urology Institute, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Case Western Reserve University, 11100 Euclid Avenue Lakeside Building Suite, Cleveland, OH 4954 USA
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Chung EH, Petishnok LC, Conyers JM, Schimer DA, Vitek WS, Harris AL, Brown MA, Jolin JA, Karmon A, Styer AK. Virtual Compared With In-Clinic Transvaginal Ultrasonography for Ovarian Reserve Assessment. Obstet Gynecol 2022; 139:561-570. [PMID: 35271530 PMCID: PMC8936158 DOI: 10.1097/aog.0000000000004698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate noninferiority of virtual transvaginal ultrasonography compared with in-clinic ultrasonography for ovarian reserve assessment. METHODS We conducted a single-site, head-to-head crossover trial. Participants performed self-administered virtual transvaginal ultrasonography at home, guided by a remote-certified ultrasound technologist, then underwent transvaginal ultrasonography in-clinic with another ultrasound technologist. Participants were women in the greater Boston area interested in evaluating ovarian reserve and recruited through social media, health care referrals, and professional networks. The uterus and ovaries were captured in sagittal and transverse views. These randomized recordings were reviewed by two or three independent, blinded reproductive endocrinologists. The primary outcome was noninferiority of the rate of clinical quality imaging produced at home compared with in clinic. Sample size was selected for greater than 90% power, given the 18% noninferiority margin. Secondary outcomes included antral follicle count equivalency and net promoter score superiority. RESULTS Fifty-six women were enrolled from December 2020 to May 2021. Participants varied in age (19-35 years), BMI (19.5-33.9), and occupation. Ninety-six percent of virtual and 98% of in-clinic images met "clinical quality." The difference of -2.4% (97.5% CI lower bound -5.5%) was within the noninferiority margin (18%). Antral follicle counts were equivalent across settings, with a difference in follicles (0.23, 95% CI -0.36 to 0.82) within the equivalence margin (2.65). Virtual examinations had superior net promoter scores (58.1 points, 97.5% CI of difference 37.3-79.0, P<.01), indicating greater satisfaction with the virtual experience. CONCLUSION Virtual transvaginal ultrasonography remotely guided by an ultrasonography technologist is noninferior to in-clinic transvaginal ultrasonography for producing clinical quality images and is equivalent for estimating antral follicle count. Virtual transvaginal ultrasonography had superior patient satisfaction and has potential to significantly expand patient access to fertility care. FUNDING SOURCE This study was sponsored by Turtle Health. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04687189.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther H. Chung
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Laura C. Petishnok
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jesse M. Conyers
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - David A. Schimer
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Wendy S. Vitek
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Amy L. Harris
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Michelle A. Brown
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Julie A. Jolin
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Anatte Karmon
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Aaron K. Styer
- Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina; Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia; University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, New York; Wright State University, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio; Northwestern Medicine, Chicago, Illinois; Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts; Hawaii Pacific Health, Honolulu, Hawaii; and CCRM Fertility, Boston, Massachusetts
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10
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Copp T, Nickel B, Lensen S, Hammarberg K, Lieberman D, Doust J, Mol BW, McCaffery K. Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) test information on Australian and New Zealand fertility clinic websites: a content analysis. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e046927. [PMID: 34233986 PMCID: PMC8264877 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-046927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) test has been promoted as a way to inform women about their future fertility. However, data consistently show the test is a poor predictor of natural fertility potential for an individual woman. As fertility centre websites are often a primary source of information for reproductive information, it is essential the information provided is accurate and reflects the available evidence. We aimed to systematically record and categorise information about the AMH test found on Australian and New Zealand fertility clinic websites. DESIGN Content analysis of online written information about the AMH test on fertility clinic websites. SETTING Accredited Australian and New Zealand fertility clinic websites. METHODS Data were extracted between April and June 2020. Any webpage that mentioned the AMH test, including blogs specifically about the AMH test posted since 2015, was analysed and the content categorised. RESULTS Of the 39 active accredited fertility clinics' websites, 25 included information about the AMH test. The amount of information varied widely, and embodied four overarching categories; (1) the utility of the AMH test, (2) who the test is suitable for, (3) possible actions in response to the test and (4) caveats and limitations of the test. Eight specific statements about the utility of the test were identified, many of which are not evidence-based. While some websites were transparent regarding the test's limitations, others mentioned no caveats or included persuasive statements actively promoting the test as empowering for a range of women in different circumstances. CONCLUSIONS Several websites had statements about the utility of the AMH test that are not supported by the evidence. This highlights the need for higher standards for information provided on fertility clinic websites to prevent women being misled to believe the test can reliably predict their fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tessa Copp
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Wiser Healthcare, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Health Literacy Lab, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Brooke Nickel
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Wiser Healthcare, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Health Literacy Lab, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Sarah Lensen
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Karin Hammarberg
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Victorian Assisted Reproductive Treatment Authority, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Devora Lieberman
- City Fertility Centre Pty Ltd, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jenny Doust
- Centre of Longitudinal and Life Course Research, School of Public Health, The University of Queensland, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Ben W Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kirsten McCaffery
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Wiser Healthcare, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Health Literacy Lab, School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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11
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Peyser A, Goldstein L, Mullin C, Goldman RH. Fertility education: what's trending on Instagram. FERTILITY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2021; 7:3. [PMID: 33461628 PMCID: PMC7812639 DOI: 10.1186/s40738-021-00095-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective To determine the prevalence, authorship, and types of fertility-related information shared on Instagram targeted toward a new patient interested in fertility options using hashtag and content analysis. Secondary outcomes included comparison of post content stratified by author type (physicians versus patients). Methods A list of ten hashtags consisting of fertility terms for the new patient was derived. Content analysis was performed in April 2019 on the top 50 and most recent 50 posts for each hashtag to determine authorship and content type. The distribution of fertility terms in posts made by physicians was compared to that of patients and differences in use of terms were analyzed. Results Our search yielded 3,393,636 posts. The two most popular hashtags were IVF (N = 912,049), and Infertility (N = 852,939). Authorship of the top posts for each hashtag (N = 1000) were as follows: patients (67 %), physicians (10 %), for-profit commercial groups (6.0 %), allied health professional (4.5 %), professional societies (1 %), and other (11 %). Of these posts, 60 % related to patient experiences, 10 % advertisements, 10 % outreach, and 8 % educational. Physicians were more likely to author posts related to oocyte cryopreservation compared to IVF, while patients were more likely to author posts about IVF (p < 0.0001). Conclusions Over 3 million posts related to fertility were authored on Instagram. A majority of fertility posts are being mobilized by patients to publicly display and share their personal experiences. Concurrent with the rising utilization of planned oocyte cryopreservation, there is a trend toward physicians educating their patients about the process using social media as a platform. Physician participation on social media may offer a low-cost platform for networking and connecting with patients. Future studies examining the educational quality of posts by author type should be explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Peyser
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwell Health, North Shore University Hospital, 300 Community Drive, Manhasset, New York, 11030, USA. .,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
| | - Liat Goldstein
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwell Health, North Shore University Hospital, 300 Community Drive, Manhasset, New York, 11030, USA.,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Christine Mullin
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwell Health, North Shore University Hospital, 300 Community Drive, Manhasset, New York, 11030, USA.,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Randi H Goldman
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwell Health, North Shore University Hospital, 300 Community Drive, Manhasset, New York, 11030, USA.,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
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12
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Gemmill A, Sedlander E, Bornstein M. Variation in Self-Perceived Fecundity among Young Adult U.S. Women. Womens Health Issues 2021; 31:31-39. [PMID: 32839092 PMCID: PMC7769880 DOI: 10.1016/j.whi.2020.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals' perceptions of their fecundity, or biological ability to bear children, have important implications for health behaviors, including infertility help-seeking and contraceptive use. Little research has examined these perceptions among U.S. women. METHODS This cross-sectional study examines perceptions of one's own fecundity among U.S. women aged 24 to 32 who participated in the 2009-2011 rounds of the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (1997) cohort. Analyses were limited to 3,088 women who indicated that they or their partners never received a doctor's diagnosis regarding fertility difficulties. RESULTS Of the women in the sample, 67% perceived their hypothetical chances of becoming pregnant as very likely; the remainder perceived their chances as somewhat likely (13%), not as likely (15%), or provided a "don't know" response (6%). Twenty-six percent of Black women and 19% of Latina women perceived themselves as not very likely to become pregnant, compared with only 12% among non-Black/non-Latina women (p < .001). Only 6% of women with a college degree perceived their chances of becoming pregnant as not very likely, compared with 36% among women without a high school degree (p < .001). Racial/ethnic and educational differences persisted in fully adjusted models. Other factors associated with fecundity self-perceptions include partnership status, parity, fertility expectations, sexual activity, prolonged exposure to unprotected intercourse for at least 6 and/or 12 months without becoming pregnant, and self-rated health. CONCLUSIONS Findings indicate that self-perceived fecundity differs systematically by demographic and other characteristics. This phenomenon should be investigated further to understand how it may influence disparities in health behaviors and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Gemmill
- Department of Population, Family and Reproductive Health, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland.
| | - Erica Sedlander
- Department of Prevention and Community Health, Milken Institute School of Public Health, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Marta Bornstein
- Department of Community Health Sciences and the California Center for Population Research, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California
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13
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Ayala-Lopez N, Nichols JH. Benefits and Risks of Direct-to-Consumer Testing. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2020; 144:1193-1198. [PMID: 33002154 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2020-0078-ra] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT.— Convenience, avoidance of doctor's appointments, curiosity, and the desire to take control of one's health are driving interest toward direct-to-consumer (DTC) testing. DTC is laboratory testing that is initiated by the consumer without a physician order. The results are reported back directly to the consumer. DTC testing is an exciting addition to the traditional healthcare model for consumers who want knowledge of their health status and disease risk, ancestry, and their body's expected response to certain medications based on their genotype. OBJECTIVES.— To discuss the perceived and potential benefits and risks involved in DTC testing. DATA SOURCES.— Recent published literature on DTC testing. CONCLUSIONS.— The benefits of DTC testing are enticing and are driving the DTC testing market. Consumers must weigh the perceived benefits with the potential risks, including privacy concerns, the possibility of receiving confusing health information, and/or information that could generate unexpected emotions, misdiagnosis, and over-testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Ayala-Lopez
- From the Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland (Ayala-Lopez)
| | - James H Nichols
- the Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee (Nichols)
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14
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Worthington AK, Burke EE, Shirazi TN, Leahy C. US Women's Perceptions and Acceptance of New Reproductive Health Technologies. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS (NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y.) 2020; 1:402-412. [PMID: 33786505 PMCID: PMC7784726 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2020.0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Women have faced persistent problems accessing reproductive health care. New applications of health technologies to reproductive health, specifically online fertility specialist consultations and reproductive hormone self-collection tests (SCTs), present unique opportunities to overcome these issues. This article uses the technology acceptance model to examine factors that influence women's intentions to use these new reproductive health technologies. Materials and Methods: Participants (n = 327 US women) completed an online survey assessing perceptions related to both of these reproductive health technologies, including usefulness, ease of use, risk, trust, subjective norms, and personal responsibility, to learn about fertility. Results: Participants indicated high perceptions of usefulness, ease of use, and trust, as well as low perceptions of risk and subjective norms for both online fertility consultations (OFCs) and reproductive hormone SCTs. Women indicated low perceptions of responsibility to use OFCs, but high perceptions of responsibility to use reproductive hormone SCTs. Structural equation modeling indicated that intentions to use OFCs were predicted by usefulness, subjective norms, and responsibility; intentions to use reproductive hormone SCTs were predicted by usefulness, ease of use, subjective norms, and responsibility. Conclusions: Fertility specialist consultations and reproductive hormone testing can provide women with essential fertility information that facilitates informed reproductive decisions; however, these services have historically been difficult to access. Widespread uptake of new reproductive health technologies could promote positive advances in women's reproductive health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber K. Worthington
- Department of Communication, University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, Alaska, USA
- Modern Fertility, San Francisco, California, USA
| | | | | | - Carly Leahy
- Modern Fertility, San Francisco, California, USA
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