Protocol for a Dietitian-Led Group Education Programme for Irish Males with Metastatic Genitourinary Cancer: The Men’s Health Initiative LIAM Mc Trial

Abstract

Background Over 100,000 men in Ireland are living with or beyond a cancer diagnosis, many with complex and evolving needs. Treatments such as androgen deprivation therapy negatively affect body composition, including muscle loss and fat gain. Group-based education with peer support, particularly when led by dietitians, is valued by prostate cancer survivors and may support positive behaviour change. Aim This protocol outlines the dietetic component of the Linking In with supports and Advice for Males impacted by Metastatic Cancer (LIAM Mc) Trial (NCT05946993) and describes the approach to assessing its feasibility in men with advanced or metastatic genitourinary cancer. Methods The LIAM Mc Trial is a 12-week multidisciplinary intervention for men aged ≥18 years with advanced or metastatic genitourinary cancer. The dietetic component includes five structured group education sessions based on the World Cancer Research Fund Recommendations and the Healthy Ireland Food Pyramid. One-on-one nutritional counselling is also offered. Dietary quality will be assessed via a cancer-specific dietary quality score and body composition will be assessed using bioelectrical impedance analysis, and ultrasound. Feasibility outcomes include recruitment, retention, attendance, acceptability, and the practicality of collecting outcome data. Conclusion This study will provide feasibility data to inform the future scaling of dietitian-led group education for men with metastatic cancer. It will also offer insights into the acceptability and potential impact of such interventions on diet quality and body composition, informing the design of a future definitive trial and contributing to models of survivorship care that prioritise nutrition and peer support. Clinical Trials Registration ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05946993), registered on 10 th May 2023, and Cancer Trials Ireland (CTRIAL-IE 23-18).