The Impact of Mobile Health on Breast Cancer Patient’s Life and Treatment: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer rates have been increasing worldwide, particularly among young women, suggesting important interactions between genes and health behaviors. At the same time, mobile technology, including smartphones applications (apps), has emerged as a new tool for delivering healthcare and health-related services. In 2019, there were nearly 670 publicly available breast cancer apps designed to provide disease and treatment information, to manage disease, and raise overall awareness.Material and Methods: In order to conduct a review, the Medline, Scopus and PubMed databases were searched with the keywords "mobile health", "mobile health in electronics health", "breast cancer and electronic health"," mobile health and breast cancer"," mobile health and breast cancer qualify life" and their equivalent. Out of the 60 articles found, after the depth of the criteria Inclusion in the study, 16 articles remained, which were reviewed and given using PRISMA 2020 checklist. SPSS software v.22 was used for description analysis.Results: A total of 16 articles met the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. All studies have determined the positive impact of applications on cancer detection and clinical health outcomes. In addition, more than half of mobile applications have multiple functions, such as providing information, planning and education. Furthermore, most studies examining patient satisfaction and quality improvement have shown that users of healthcare applications are significantly more satisfied with life, leading to better quality.Conclusion: The evidence of the studies which are included in this systematic review is currently limited, but it suggests that the mobile apps might be an acceptable information source for women with breast cancer and lead to improved patient well-being.

Effects of a Phone-Based Support Program for Women With Breast Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Pilot Study

“…Mobile phone applications, in particular, have effectively improved self-care behaviors in various patient populations ( Son et al, 2020 ). In the context of breast cancer, mobile applications have been instrumental in reducing symptom distress, enhancing social support, and promoting SCSE among patients ( Sohrabei & Atashi, 2021 ; Zhu et al, 2018 ). This evidence highlights the potential of mobile health interventions in augmenting traditional care methods and empowering patients in self-management.…”

Development, usability and quality evaluation of the resilient mobile application for women with breast cancer

“… 7 , 19 So m‐Health apps had been evaluated to be useful in identifying and managing mental problems and stress after a cancer diagnosis. 20 , 21 , 22 …”

“…Mobile apps are recognized as an innovative way with the goal of relaxation and mindfulness interventions for cancer patients. 20 The results of the use of m‐Health apps in the field of cancer for active participation of patients in self‐management, improving the psycho‐emotional status, and understanding of the disease show improvement in the process of treatment and clinical care. 4 Crico et al developed the online platform Horizon 2020 European project to manage cancer to empower cancer patients, their results showed improved resilience in these patients.…”

“…7,19 So m-Health apps had been evaluated to be useful in identifying and managing mental problems and stress after a cancer diagnosis. [20][21][22] Improving mental health is the most important factor of resilience in women with breast cancer and interventions related to improving mental health can improve resilience. 23 Resilience is a process that provides the possibility of improvement or adaptation to problems 24 and helps the person to improve their mental and physical performance encountering challenges and difficulties.…”

“…Due to the simplicity of access to mobile devices and mobile apps, cancer patients can communicate effectively with healthcare providers 7,19 . So m‐Health apps had been evaluated to be useful in identifying and managing mental problems and stress after a cancer diagnosis 20–22 …”