Adolescent Perceptions and Barriers for Urological Transition: STREAMWAY Qualitative Study Protocol

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Adolescent Medicine
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Childhood-onset lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) pose challenges during the transition from pediatric to adult urological care.
• This critical period is characterized by disrupted care, poor adherence, and psychosocial stress, yet remains understudied.
• Effective transition strategies are needed to ensure continuity of care and improve outcomes for young adults with LUTS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore adolescents' perceptions, attitudes, and lived experiences during the transition from pediatric to adult urological care.
• To identify barriers and facilitators impacting the success of this transition process.
• To understand the impact of LUTS transition on urinary symptoms, sleep, quality of life, and psychosocial well-being.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory qualitative study involving semi-structured interviews with participants aged 16-25 years with childhood LUTS.
• Supplementation with validated questionnaires assessing urinary symptoms, quality of life, sleep, and adverse childhood experiences.
• Thematic and interpretative phenomenological analysis for qualitative data, with descriptive analysis for quantitative data.

Main Results:

• The study aims to map perceptions and experiences of transition, identifying key barriers and facilitators.
• Secondary endpoints will provide insights into current symptom burden, sleep quality, quality of life, and psychosocial factors.
• Integration of qualitative and quantitative findings will offer a comprehensive understanding of the transition experience.

Conclusions:

• Understanding adolescent perspectives is crucial for optimizing the transition of care for young adults with LUTS.
• Identifying specific barriers and facilitators will inform the development of targeted interventions and support systems.
• Improved transition processes are expected to enhance adherence, reduce psychosocial stress, and improve long-term urological health outcomes.