Development and usability of a computer-tailored pedometer-based physical activity advice for breast cancer survivors

Abstract

This observational study aimed to adapt a computer-tailored step advice for the general population into a feasible advice for breast cancer survivors and to test its usability. First, several adaptations were made to the original design (adding cancer-related physical activity (PA) barriers and beliefs, and self-management strategies to improve survivors' personal control). Second, the adapted advice was evaluated in two phases: (1) a usability testing in healthy women (n = 3) and survivors (n = 6); and (2) a process evaluation during 3 weeks in breast cancer survivors (n = 8). Preliminary usability testing revealed no problems during logging-in; however, three survivors misinterpreted some questions. After refining the questionnaire and advice, survivors evaluated the advice as interesting, attractive to read, comprehensible and credible. Inactive survivors found the advice novel, but too long. The process evaluation indicated that the majority of the women (n = 5/8) reported increased steps. Monitoring step counts by using a pedometer was perceived as an important motivator to be more active. To conclude, this study provides initial support for the usability and acceptability of a computer-tailored pedometer-based PA advice for breast cancer survivors. After testing efficacy and effectiveness of this intervention, this tool can broaden the reach of PA promotion in breast cancer survivors.

Use and Appreciation of a Tailored Self-Management eHealth Intervention for Early Cancer Survivors: Process Evaluation of a Randomized Controlled Trial

“…According to previously published studies, mixed results were found on the relationship between intervention usage and outcomes, such as symptom distress, depression, and lifestyle behaviors [29,32,33]. With regard to appreciation, prior studies reported that Web-based interventions were positively evaluated by cancer survivors, and a higher use was associated with a higher appreciation in a generic Web-based intervention for breast cancer survivors [24,34,35]. …”

Relationship of physical activity with physical function and health-related quality of life in patients having undergone allogeneic haematopoietic stem-cell transplantation

“…Foremost, our study group was relatively small, and recruited from a single hospital, compared to the larger study cohort, reducing the statistical power of findings. First, although previous studies reported a positive effect of exercise on physical activity levels in patients with breast cancer (de Cocker et al, 2015), colorectal cancer (Skender et al, 2015), and in survivors of a variety of other cancers (James et al, 2015), we could not evaluate the specific effect of our physical therapy program on physical activity levels of our patients. Future longitudinal studies, using a randomised controlled design, are required to evaluate the effectiveness of physical therapy intervention on physical activity of patients undergoing all-HSCT.…”

Challenges in cancer self-management of patients with limited English proficiency

“…For instance, these interventions could include strategies to help improve physical and psychosocial well-being,[232425] symptom management,[262728] coping,[293031] and diet and physical activity. [323334] While the results from these programs were supportive to cancer patient self-management, the development of such program and validation of usefulness and sustainability for cancer patients who have language and cultural barriers are still limited. [3536]…”