Effectiveness of a theory-based tailored mHealth physical activity intervention for women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer: A quasi-experimental study

Abstract

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of the theory-based tailored mHealth physical activity (PA) intervention among patients with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy.

Methods

A quasi-experimental study design was adopted. A total of 60 breast cancer patients were selected from two tertiary hospitals in Shanghai and Hangzhou City from September 2019 to August 2021. According to the admission order, 30 patients were first included in the control group, followed by 30 patients in the intervention group. A smartphone application (app) named “Breast Care” was developed based on social cognitive theory, self-efficacy theory, and the theory of planned behavior. The app integrated various functions, including information browsing, PA monitoring and feedback, symptom reporting, and social interaction. Patients in the intervention group received three months of personalized online PA guidance in addition to routine care. The control group received routine care. Baseline and post-intervention investigations after three months were conducted in two groups using the Short Form of International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy—Breast cancer.

Results

After three months of intervention, compared to the control group, breast cancer patients in the intervention group showed significant improvements in walking, moderate PA, and overall PA (P < 0.05). Compared to the baseline data, breast cancer patients in the intervention group had significant improvements in walking and overall PA after three months (P < 0.05), whereas the control group experienced significant declines in walking, moderate PA, and overall PA after three months (P < 0.05). There were statistically differences between the two groups in scores for anxiety, overall quality of life, and its dimensions, such as physical well-being, emotional well-being, and additional breast cancer well-being (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The theory-based tailored mHealth PA intervention has demonstrated a positive impact on promoting PA behavior change and emotional management among breast cancer patients. The ‘Breast Care’ app integrated various practical behavior change strategies, offering valuable guidance for personalized remote rehabilitation support for cancer patients.