Research priorities in infertility and assisted reproductive technology treatments - a James Lind Alliance priority setting partnership with brazilian patients

Abstract

Objective: To identify the main research interests of Brazilian patients in the field of infertility and assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatments. Methods: This prospective multicenter cross-sectional study was carried out in Brazil. Patients attending five fertility centers from the Huntington Group between October and December 2018 were invited to join the study, which consisted of answering an anonymous survey online. Two hundred and twenty-seven patients signed the informed consent form and were emailed the survey link. The survey was designed based on the James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership protocol. In the area of infertility, patients were probed on issues such as somatic and psychological effects of treatment, prevention, assisted reproductive technology (medications and procedures), success rates, risks, and emotional aspects. Results: The response rate (RR) was 47.58% (108 patients; 88 women-RR 51.46% and 20 men-RR 35.71%). Patient mean age was 36.5 years (SD 4.6). The top ten research priorities listed were 1) short-and long-term side effects of treatment; 2) how to cope with infertility; 3) risks associated with ART; 4) success rates in ART; 5) impact of diet on ART and fertility; 6) healthy habits; 7) alternative therapies; 8) impact of exercise on fertility and ART success; 9) oocyte quality and ovarian reserve; and 10) genetic or inherited causes of infertility. Conclusion: To better cater to the needs of patients and develop patient-centered care in the field of infertility and ART treatment, clinicians, healthcare providers, and the scientific community must identify patient concerns and priorities and make efforts to address them.