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Lazarou I, Krooupa AM, Nikolopoulos S, Apostolidis L, Sarris N, Papadopoulos S, Kompatsiaris I. Cancer Patients' Perspectives and Requirements of Digital Health Technologies: A Scoping Literature Review. Cancers (Basel) 2024; 16:2293. [PMID: 39001356 PMCID: PMC11240750 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16132293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Digital health technologies have the potential to alleviate the increasing cancer burden. Incorporating patients' perspectives on digital health tools has been identified as a critical determinant for their successful uptake in cancer care. The main objective of this scoping review was to provide an overview of the existing evidence on cancer patients' perspectives and requirements for patient-facing digital health technologies. Three databases (CINAHL, MEDLINE, Science Direct) were searched and 128 studies were identified as eligible for inclusion. Web-based software/platforms, mobile or smartphone devices/applications, and remote sensing/wearable technologies employed for the delivery of interventions and patient monitoring were the most frequently employed technologies in cancer care. The abilities of digital tools to enable care management, user-friendliness, and facilitate patient-clinician interactions were the technological requirements predominantly considered as important by cancer patients. The findings from this review provide evidence that could inform future research on technology-associated parameters influencing cancer patients' decisions regarding the uptake and adoption of patient-facing digital health technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioulietta Lazarou
- Information Technologies Institute (ITI), Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), 6th km Charilaou-Thermi Road, P.O. Box 6036, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna-Maria Krooupa
- Information Technologies Institute (ITI), Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), 6th km Charilaou-Thermi Road, P.O. Box 6036, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Spiros Nikolopoulos
- Information Technologies Institute (ITI), Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), 6th km Charilaou-Thermi Road, P.O. Box 6036, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Lazaros Apostolidis
- Information Technologies Institute (ITI), Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), 6th km Charilaou-Thermi Road, P.O. Box 6036, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Nikos Sarris
- Information Technologies Institute (ITI), Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), 6th km Charilaou-Thermi Road, P.O. Box 6036, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Symeon Papadopoulos
- Information Technologies Institute (ITI), Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), 6th km Charilaou-Thermi Road, P.O. Box 6036, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Ioannis Kompatsiaris
- Information Technologies Institute (ITI), Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH), 6th km Charilaou-Thermi Road, P.O. Box 6036, 57001 Thessaloniki, Greece
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Schunn FA, El Shafie RA, Kronsteiner D, Sauer LD, Kudak A, Bougatf N, Oetzel D, Krämer A, Regnery S, Machmer T, Debus J, Nicolay NH. Oncologic treatment support via a dedicated mobile app: a prospective feasibility evaluation (OPTIMISE-1). Strahlenther Onkol 2024; 200:475-486. [PMID: 37947806 PMCID: PMC11111550 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-023-02166-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile health (mhealth) is gaining interest, with mobile devices and apps being ever more available among medical facilities and patients. However, in the field of radiation oncology, the medical benefits of mhealth apps are still underexplored. As an additional approach to patient care during radiotherapy, we designed a mobile treatment surveillance app based on patient-reported outcomes. OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine the feasibility of app-based treatment surveillance in patients undergoing radiotherapy (RT). Alongside technical practicability and acceptance, we assessed patient satisfaction and quality of life during treatment. METHODS This prospective single-center study was performed at Heidelberg University Hospital between August 2018 and January 2020. During RT we measured patients' quality of life, symptoms, and treatment satisfaction. Respective questionnaires (EORTC QLQ-C30 with diagnosis-specific modules, RAND PSQ-18) were presented to patients via a mobile app running on a designated tablet device. The primary endpoint was determined by the fraction of patients who completed at least 80% of the items. Secondary endpoints were disease-related quality of life and patient satisfaction. RESULTS A total of 49 cancer patients (14 breast, 13 pelvic, 12 lung, 10 prostate) were eligible for analysis. 79.6% (95% confidence interval: 66.4-88.5%; n = 39) of all patients completed at least 80% of the items received by the mobile app. A mean of 227.5 ± 48.25 questions were answered per patient. Breast cancer patients showed the highest rate of answered questions, with 92.9% (n = 13) completing at least 80% of the items. CONCLUSION Patients showed high acceptance, with 79.6% (n = 39) completing at least 80% of the given items. The use of a mobile app for reporting symptoms and quality of life during RT is feasible and well accepted by patients. It may allow for resource-efficient, detailed feedback to the medical staff and assist in the assessment of side effects over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian A Schunn
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Rami A El Shafie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Göttingen University Hospital, Robert-Koch-Str. 40, 37075, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Dorothea Kronsteiner
- Institute for Medical Biometry (IMBI), Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lukas D Sauer
- Institute for Medical Biometry (IMBI), Im Neuenheimer Feld 130.3, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Andreas Kudak
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nina Bougatf
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dieter Oetzel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Anna Krämer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Regnery
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Jürgen Debus
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Im Neuenheimer Feld 400, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- National Center for Tumor diseases (NCT), Heidelberg, Germany
- Clinical Cooperation Unit Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nils Henrik Nicolay
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Medical Center Freiburg, Robert-Koch-Straße 3, 79106, Freiburg, Germany
- German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Freiburg, German Cancer Research Center (dkfz), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
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Langballe R, Svendsen L, Jakobsen E, Dalton SO, Karlsen RV, Iachina M, Freund KM, Leclair A, Jørgensen LB, Skou ST, Ehlers JH, Torenholt R, Svendsen MN, Envold Bidstrup P. Nurse navigation, symptom monitoring and exercise in vulnerable patients with lung cancer: feasibility of the NAVIGATE intervention. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22744. [PMID: 38123657 PMCID: PMC10733288 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50161-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
We developed the Navigate intervention to improve survival among vulnerable lung cancer patients. In this intervention-only study, we examined feasibility in terms of recruitment, retention, attendance, adherence, and acceptability to specify adjustments to study procedures and intervention components prior to a randomized trial. The Navigate intervention includes nurse navigation, patient-reported outcomes, and physical exercise. Patients ≥ 18 years old, diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer at any stage, with performance status ≤ 2, eligible for cancer treatment and vulnerable according to a screening instrument were included. The recruitment goal of eligible patients was 40% while the retention goal was 85%. The predefined cut-offs for sufficient attendance and adherence were ≥ 75%. Acceptability was evaluated by semi-structured interviews with participants, nurse navigators, and physiotherapists. Seventeen (56%) out of 30 screened patients were considered vulnerable and eligible for the study, 14 (82%) accepted participation, and 3 (21%) were subsequently excluded due to ineligibility, leaving 11 patients. Four patients dropped out (36%) and four patients died (36%) during follow-up and 3 (27%) were retained. All 11 patients participated in nurse sessions (mean 16, range 1-36) with 88% attendance and dialogue tools being applied in 68% of sessions. Ninety-one percent of patients responded to PROs (mean of 9 PROs, range 1-24) with 76% of the PRO questionnaires used (attendance) and 100% adherence (completion of all questions in PRO questionnaires), and 55% participated in exercise sessions with 58% attendance and 85% adherence. We identified important barriers primarily related to transportation, but overall acceptability was high. The Navigate intervention was feasible with high participation, acceptability and satisfactory adherence. Retention and exercise attendance were low, which resulted in adjustments.Trial registration: The feasibility study was initiated prior to the multicenter randomized controlled trial registered by ClinicalTrials.gov (number: NCT05053997; date 23/09/2021).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikke Langballe
- Psychological Aspects of Cancer, Cancer Survivorship, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Næstved, Denmark.
| | - Lukas Svendsen
- Psychological Aspects of Cancer, Cancer Survivorship, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Erik Jakobsen
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
- The Danish Lung Cancer Registry, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Susanne Oksbjerg Dalton
- Cancer Survivorship, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Danish Research Center for Equality in Cancer, Department of Clinical Oncology & Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Næstved, Denmark
| | - Randi Valbjørn Karlsen
- Psychological Aspects of Cancer, Cancer Survivorship, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Maria Iachina
- Center for Clinical Epidemiology and Research Unit of Clinical Epidemiology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Karen M Freund
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Amy Leclair
- Department of Medicine, Tufts Medical Center, Tufts University School of Medicine, Boston, USA
| | - Lars Bo Jørgensen
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Slagelse, Denmark
- Research Unit for Musculoskeletal Function and Physiotherapy, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Søren T Skou
- The Research and Implementation Unit PROgrez, Department of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy, Næstved-Slagelse-Ringsted Hospitals, Slagelse, Denmark
- Research Unit for Musculoskeletal Function and Physiotherapy, Department of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Jeanette Haar Ehlers
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Næstved, Denmark
| | - Rikke Torenholt
- Psychological Aspects of Cancer, Cancer Survivorship, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Mads Nordahl Svendsen
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, Næstved, Denmark
| | - Pernille Envold Bidstrup
- Psychological Aspects of Cancer, Cancer Survivorship, Danish Cancer Institute, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Institute of Psychology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Billingy NE, Tromp VNMF, Aaronson NK, Hoek RJA, Bogaard HJ, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD, van de Poll-Franse L, Hugtenburg JG, Belderbos J, Becker-Commissaris A, van den Hurk CJG, Walraven I. Quality of life after patient-initiated vs physician-initiated response to symptom monitoring: the SYMPRO-Lung trial. J Natl Cancer Inst 2023; 115:1515-1525. [PMID: 37603720 PMCID: PMC10699799 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djad159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies using patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMs) to monitor symptoms during and after (lung) cancer treatment used alerts that were sent to the health-care provider, although an approach in which patients receive alerts could be more clinically feasible. The primary aim of this study was to compare the effect of weekly PROM symptom monitoring via a reactive approach (patient receives alert) or active approach (health-care provider receives alert) with care as usual on health-related quality of life (HRQOL) at 15 weeks after start of treatment in lung cancer patients. METHODS The SYMPRO-Lung trial is a multicenter randomized controlled trial using a stepped wedge design. Stage I-IV lung cancer patients in the reactive and active groups reported PROM symptoms weekly, which were linked to a common alerting algorithm. HRQOL was measured by the EORTC QLQ-C30 at baseline and after 15 weeks. Linear regression analyses and effect size estimates were used to assess mean QOL-C30 change scores between groups, accounting for confounding. RESULTS A total of 515 patients were included (160 active group, 89 reactive group, 266 control group). No differences in HRQOL were observed between the reactive and active group (summary score: unstandardized beta [B] = 0.51, 95% confidence interval [CI] = -3.22 to 4.24, Cohen d effect size [ES] = 0.06; physical functioning: B = 0.25, 95% CI = -5.15 to 4.64, ES = 0.02). The combined intervention groups had statistically and clinically significantly better mean change scores on the summary score (B = 4.85, 95% CI = 1.96 to 7.73, ES = 0.57) and physical functioning (B = 7.00, 95% CI = 2.90 to 11.09, ES = 0.71) compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS Weekly PRO symptom monitoring statistically and clinically significantly improves HRQOL in lung cancer patients. The logistically less intensive, reactive approach may be a better fit for implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E Billingy
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Vashti N M F Tromp
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Neil K Aaronson
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rianne J A Hoek
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Harm Jan Bogaard
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lonneke van de Poll-Franse
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, the Netherlands
- CoRPS—Center of Research on Psychological and Somatic Disorders, Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Jacqueline G Hugtenburg
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - José Belderbos
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Annemarie Becker-Commissaris
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Centers (UMC), Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Corina J G van den Hurk
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Iris Walraven
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
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Govindaraj R, Agar M, Currow D, Luckett T. Assessing Patient-Reported Outcomes in Routine Cancer Clinical Care Using Electronic Administration and Telehealth Technologies: Realist Synthesis of Potential Mechanisms for Improving Health Outcomes. J Med Internet Res 2023; 25:e48483. [PMID: 38015606 PMCID: PMC10716761 DOI: 10.2196/48483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/29/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The routine measurement of patient-reported outcomes in cancer clinical care using electronic patient-reported outcome measures (ePROMs) is gaining momentum worldwide. However, a deep understanding of the mechanisms underpinning ePROM interventions that could inform their optimal design to improve health outcomes is needed. OBJECTIVE This study aims to identify the implicit mechanisms that underpin the effectiveness of ePROM interventions and develop program theories about how and when ePROM interventions improve health outcomes. METHODS A realist synthesis of the literature about ePROM interventions in cancer clinical care was performed. A conceptual framework of ePROM interventions was constructed to define the scope of the review and frame the initial program theories. Literature searches of Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid Embase, Scopus, and CINAHL, supplemented by citation tracking, were performed to identify relevant literature to develop, refine, and test program theories. Quality appraisal of relevant studies was performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. RESULTS Overall, 61 studies were included in the realist synthesis: 15 (25%) mixed methods studies, 9 (15%) qualitative studies, 13 (21%) descriptive studies, 21 (34%) randomized controlled trials, and 3 (5%) quasi-experimental studies. In total, 3 initial program theories were developed regarding the salient components of ePROM interventions-remote self-reporting, real-time feedback to clinicians, and clinician-patient telecommunication. The refined theories posit that remote self-reporting enables patients to recognize and report symptoms accurately and empowers them to communicate these to clinicians, real-time feedback prompts clinicians to manage symptoms proactively, and clinician-patient telephone interactions and e-interactions between clinic encounters improve symptom management by reshaping how clinicians and patients communicate. However, the intervention may not achieve the intended benefit if ePROMs become a reminder to patients of their illness and are not meaningful to them and when real-time feedback to clinicians lacks relevance and increases the workload. CONCLUSIONS The key to improving health outcomes through ePROM interventions is enabling better symptom reporting and communication through remote symptom self-reporting, promoting proactive management of symptoms through real-time clinician feedback, and facilitating clinician-patient interactions. Patient engagement with self-reporting and clinician engagement in responding to feedback are vital and may reinforce each other in improving outcomes. Effective ePROM interventions might fundamentally alter how clinicians and patients interact between clinic encounters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Govindaraj
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Royal Adelaide Hospital, Adelaide, Australia
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- IMPACCT - Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Meera Agar
- IMPACCT - Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - David Currow
- IMPACCT - Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Tim Luckett
- IMPACCT - Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Garavand A, Aslani N, Behmanesh A, Khara R, Ehsanzadeh SJ, Khodaveisi T. Features of teleoncology in lung cancer: A scoping review. PATIENT EDUCATION AND COUNSELING 2023; 114:107831. [PMID: 37295044 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There are several challenges in providing healthcare services for lung cancer patients. Using teleoncology is an effective solution to meet such challenges. Given this, we in this study aimed to identify the features of teleoncology in lung cancer. METHODS We conducted this scoping review in 2023. We first searched scientific databases including PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Sciences, and Science Direct by combining related keywords for the past 12 years (2012-2023). RESULTS After reviewing 860 articles, we selected 39 studies for the purpose of this study. The interventions of teleoncology for lung cancer patients have four main categories, namely: monitoring of symptoms, monitoring the process of treatment and rehabilitation of patients, self-management and patient empowerment, and providing consultation for patients. CONCLUSION The appropriate implementation of teleoncology systems improves the patient's condition and reduces lung cancer complications by improving the availability of different health services. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS More attention should be paid to the evaluation of telemedicine systems from the perspective of patients and health service providers. Also, the latest platforms, including mobile phone-based software, should be used to implement such systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Garavand
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Nasim Aslani
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
| | - Ali Behmanesh
- Bone and Joint Reconstruction Research Center, Shafa Orthopedic Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Seyed Jafar Ehsanzadeh
- English Language Department, School of Health Management and Information Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Taleb Khodaveisi
- Department of Health Information Technology, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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Jim HSL, Brady-Nicholls R, Hershman DL. The importance of patient-reported outcomes in pragmatic clinical trials. J Natl Cancer Inst 2023; 115:352-354. [PMID: 36805254 PMCID: PMC10086620 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djad037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Heather S L Jim
- Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Renee Brady-Nicholls
- Department of Integrated Mathematical Oncology, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Dawn L Hershman
- Herbert Irving Comprehensive Cancer Center, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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Nannini S, Penel N, Bompas E, Willaume T, Kurtz JE, Gantzer J. Shortening the Time Interval for the Referral of Patients With Soft Tissue Sarcoma to Expert Centers Using Mobile Health: Retrospective Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e40718. [PMID: 36350680 PMCID: PMC9685503 DOI: 10.2196/40718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 09/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND According to guidelines, all patients with sarcoma must be managed from initial diagnosis at expert sarcoma centers. However, in everyday practice, the time interval to an expert center visit can be long, which delays presentation to an expert multidisciplinary tumor board and increases the risk of inappropriate management, negatively affecting local tumor control and prognosis. The advent of mobile health offers an easy way to facilitate communication and cooperation between general health care providers (eg, general practitioners and radiologists) and sarcomas experts. We developed a mobile app (Sar'Connect) based on the algorithm designed by radiologists from the French Sarcoma Group. Through a small number of easy-to-answer questions, Sar'Connect provides personalized advice for the management of patients and contact information for the closest expert center. OBJECTIVE This retrospective study is the first to assess this mobile app's potential benefits in reducing the time interval for patient referral to an expert center according to the initial clinical characteristics of the soft tissue tumor. METHODS From May to December 2021, we extracted tumor mass data for 78 patients discussed by the multidisciplinary tumor boards at 3 centers of the French Sarcoma Group. We applied the Sar'Connect algorithm to these data and estimated the time interval between the first medical description of the soft tissue mass and the referral to expert center. We then compared this estimated time interval with the observed time interval. RESULTS We found that the use of Sar'Connect could potentially shorten the time interval to an expert center by approximately 7.5 months (P<.001). Moreover, for half (31/60, 52%) of the patients with a malignant soft tissue tumor, Sar'Connect could have avoided inappropriate management outside of the reference center. We did not identify a significant determinant for shortening the time interval for referral. CONCLUSIONS Overall, promoting the use of a simple mobile app is an innovative and straightforward means to potentially accelerate both the referral and management of patients with soft tissue sarcoma at expert centers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Nannini
- Department of Medical Oncology, Strasbourg-Europe Cancer Institute, Strasbourg, France
| | - Nicolas Penel
- Department of Medical Oncology, Center Oscar Lambret, Lille University, Lille, France
| | - Emmanuelle Bompas
- Department of Medical Oncology, Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest, Nancy, France
| | - Thibault Willaume
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Jean-Emmanuel Kurtz
- Department of Medical Oncology, Strasbourg-Europe Cancer Institute, Strasbourg, France
| | - Justine Gantzer
- Department of Medical Oncology, Strasbourg-Europe Cancer Institute, Strasbourg, France
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Kiderlen TR, Schnack A, de Wit M. Essential barriers and considerations for the implementation of electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO) measures in oncological practice: contextualizing the results of a feasibility study with existing literature. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GESUNDHEITSWISSENSCHAFTEN = JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 31:1-18. [PMID: 36320803 PMCID: PMC9613453 DOI: 10.1007/s10389-022-01767-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Aim Monitoring electronic patient-reported outcomes (ePRO) can provide various benefits to cancer patients, such as enhanced quality of life, reduction of hospital admissions, and even prolonged survival. Furthermore, ePRO might offer significant benefits to patients under antineoplastic treatment in the context of the current COVID-19 pandemic. However, evidence on feasibility of ePRO in routine cancer care and barriers met in a real-life setting remains limited. Subject and methods We conducted a feasibility study among patients diagnosed with multiple myeloma currently under antineoplastic treatment. Patients filled out weekly ePRO questionnaires and were followed up for 6 months. In case of adverse events, an alert was sent to the clinic. We assessed uptake and adherence, as well as subjective perceptions of patients and clinic staff. A semi-structured literature review was conducted to contextualize results. Results Eleven patients were recruited and followed up for 6 months. Overall adherence was found at a high level and remained stable throughout the study period. Feedback from patients was positive; however, clinic staff expressed disappointment and frustration, criticising an increase of workload while not perceiving any benefit to the oncological treatment. Both findings were backed by evidence we found in literature. Conclusions Implementation of ePRO monitoring to routine cancer treatment seems to be feasible regarding patients' acceptance and compliance. However, integration of the tool into clinical workflow without increasing workload and deterring clinicians proves to be a major challenge. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10389-022-01767-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Til Ramón Kiderlen
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Vivantes Hospital Neukoelln, Berlin, Germany
- Faculty of Health Sciences Brandenburg, Brandenburg Medical School Theodor Fontane, Brandenburg an der Havel, Germany
| | - Alexandra Schnack
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Vivantes Hospital Neukoelln, Berlin, Germany
| | - Maike de Wit
- Department of Hematology, Oncology and Palliative Care, Vivantes Hospital Neukoelln, Berlin, Germany
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Wald T, Zebralla V, Boege M, Kunz V, Neumuth T, Dietz A, Wichmann G, Wiegand S. Web-Based Patient-Reported Outcomes for ENT Patients-Evaluation of the Status Quo, Patients' View, and Future Perspectives. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph191811773. [PMID: 36142048 PMCID: PMC9517261 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph191811773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient-reported outcomes (PRO) assess disease burden and indicate unmet needs. Home-based electronic PRO measures (ePROMs) can support tumor aftercare (TAC). Creating an ePROM is the next step after implementing the software "OncoFunction" to assess PROs during TAC of head- and neck-cancer patients (HNC). Therefore, internet use and perception on ePROMs of ENT and TAC patients were evaluated. METHODS From May-July 2020, ENT patients at a high-volume outpatient department aged >18 without need for emergency treatment were invited to complete a questionnaire concerning internet use and access, hardware, and opinion on the chances, requirements, and designs of ePROMs. RESULTS 415 questionnaires were evaluated; 46.3% of the respondents visited the common consultation hour (CCH) and 44.3% TAC; 71.9% were internet users, being younger than non-internet users; and 36.4% of TAC patients were non-internet users and 16.3% of them were without a web-enabled device. Significant differences existed in age and assessment of future perspectives between internet-/non-internet users and TAC/CCH patients, respectively. Regarding the design of ePROMs, patients preferred quarterly and short surveys. Data safety and feedback were important. CONCLUSIONS ePROMs are not suitable for everyone because of missing internet access and experience. A tailored approach to implement ePROMs in TAC is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa Wald
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Leipzig Medical Centre, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Correspondence:
| | - Veit Zebralla
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Leipzig Medical Centre, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Maren Boege
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Leipzig Medical Centre, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Viktor Kunz
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Leipzig Medical Centre, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thomas Neumuth
- Innovation Center Computer Assisted Surgery, University of Leipzig, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Andreas Dietz
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Leipzig Medical Centre, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Gunnar Wichmann
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Leipzig Medical Centre, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
| | - Susanne Wiegand
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, University of Leipzig Medical Centre, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
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Efficacy of an Integrated Mobile Application System for Patients with Radiation Therapy: A Pilot Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10091696. [PMID: 36141313 PMCID: PMC9498518 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10091696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of IT applications for patients undergoing radiotherapy is limited. This study aimed to develop an integrated system for communication between patients and radiation oncologists using IT technology and report the first test results for the system “Assisted Radiation Oncology Mobile Application” (AROMA). This system consisted of a manager program, a server running on a PC, and a mobile application on a smartphone. A prospective survey was conducted to evaluate the usefulness of this system from October 2020 to January 2021. The survey consisted of a specific questionnaire on basic information and application use by the patients. The management program was designed such that the user (doctor) edits the treatment schedule, member (patient and doctor) information, self-management, disease information, and side effect questionnaire. The mobile application for patients consisted of the current schedule, treatment schedule calendar, side effect questionnaire, side effect management method, and disease information entered by the doctor. A total of 41 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean adverse event response time was 4.4 days. In the survey, the mobile application received positive views (8.6/10 points). Most responses related to the side effect reporting function (94%) and communication using the application (91%) were positive. Satisfaction with the application design and each menu item was high, with an average of ≥8 and ≥8.5 points in most cases, respectively. The survey showed good satisfaction with the design, operability, and reporting system. Therefore, the system can facilitate communication between patients and radiation oncologists in the future.
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Prasongsook N, Seetalarom K, Saichaemchan S, Udomdamrongkul K. A Pilot Study of Using Smartphone Application vs. Routine Follow-Up for Patient Care in Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer During the COVID-19 Pandemic Era. FRONTIERS IN MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY 2022; 4:900172. [PMID: 35800468 PMCID: PMC9253575 DOI: 10.3389/fmedt.2022.900172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
IntroductionCancer care monitoring should be adapted regarding COVID-19 pandemic preparedness plans. Lung Cancer Care application was a mobile application program to monitor adverse events and report outcomes. This study is aimed to invent a new mobile application evaluating patient-reported outcome (PRO) for patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and to evaluate the validity of a mobile application, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic era.MethodsThe validity of the application was tested, and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-Lung (FACT-L) questionnaires were contained in the mobile application-based PRO. Patients were randomly assigned to use mobile application-based PRO vs. routine follow-up. The primary end point was to compare the quality of life (QoL) scores between two groups. A secondary end point was overall survival (OS) and the outcomes of progressive disease (PD) between the two groups.ResultsIn total, 33 patients with advanced NSCLC were enrolled. Patients in the mobile application group had higher FACT-L scores at 3 months than patients with a routine follow-up arm (106 ± 5.97 vs. 99.96 ± 5.74, p-value = 0.07). The median follow-up time was 5.43 months; patients with mobile application had an insignificant increase in median OS when compared with patients using routine follow-up (4.53 vs. 2.93 months, p-value = 0.85). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive (NPV) value of this application for predicting disease progression were 50, 83.3, 66.7, and 70%, respectively.ConclusionSelf-reported symptoms by Lung Cancer Care application improved QoL and were similar in monitoring outcomes to face-to-face follow-up. This tool is applicable for patients with cancer to make monitoring as safe as possible for physical distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic era.
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Denis F, Maurier L, Carillo K, Ologeanu-Taddei R, Septans AL, Gepner A, Le Goff F, Desbois M, Demurger B, Silber D, Zeitoun JD, Assuied GP, Bonnot O. Early Detection of Neurodevelopmental Disorders of Toddlers and Postnatal Depression by Mobile Health App: Observational Cross-sectional Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2022; 10:e38181. [PMID: 35576565 PMCID: PMC9152715 DOI: 10.2196/38181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 04/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background
Delays in the diagnosis of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) in toddlers and postnatal depression (PND) in mothers are major public health issues. In both cases, early intervention is crucial.
Objective
We aimed to assess if a mobile app named Malo can reduce delay in the recognition of NDD and PND.
Methods
We performed an observational, cross-sectional, data-based study in a population of young parents with a minimum of 1 child under 3 years of age at the time of inclusion and using Malo on a regular basis. We included the first 4000 users matching the criteria and agreeing to participate between November 11, 2021, and January 14, 2022. Parents received monthly questionnaires via the app, assessing skills on sociability, hearing, vision, motricity, language of their infants, and possible autism spectrum disorder. Mothers were also requested to answer regular questionnaires regarding PND, from 4-28 weeks after childbirth. When any patient-reported outcomes matched predefined criteria, an in-app notification was sent to the user, recommending the booking of an appointment with their family physician or pediatrician.
The main outcomes were the median age of the infant at the time of notification for possible NDD and the median time of PND notifications after childbirth. One secondary outcome was the relevance of the NDD notification for a consultation as assessed by the physicians.
Results
Among 4242 children assessed by 5309 questionnaires, 613 (14.5%) had at least 1 disorder requiring a consultation. The median age of notification for possible autism spectrum, vision, audition, socialization, language, or motor disorders was 11, 9, 17, 12, 22, and 4 months, respectively. The sensitivity of the alert notifications of suspected NDDs as assessed by the physicians was 100%, and the specificity was 73.5%. Among 907 mothers who completed a PND questionnaire, highly probable PND was detected in 151 (16.6%) mothers, and the median time of detection was 8-12 weeks.
Conclusions
The algorithm-based alert suggesting NDD was highly sensitive with good specificity as assessed by real-life practitioners. The app was also efficient in the early detection of PND. Our results suggest that the regular use of this multidomain familial smartphone app would permit the early detection of NDD and PND.
Trial Registration
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04958174; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04958174
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrice Denis
- Institut Inter-Regional Jean Bernard, ELSAN, Le Mans, France
| | - Laura Maurier
- Institut Inter-Regional Jean Bernard, ELSAN, Le Mans, France
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Denise Silber
- Basil Strategies, Paris, France
- VRforHealth, Paris, France
| | - Jean-David Zeitoun
- Centre d'Epidémiologie Clinique, Hôtel Dieu Hospital, Assistance Publique-Hopitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | | | - Olivier Bonnot
- Service de Pédopsychiatrie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nantes, Nantes, France
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Billingy NE, Tromp VNMF, Veldhuijzen E, Belderbos J, Aaronson NK, Feldman E, Hoek R, Bogaard HJ, Onwuteaka-Philipsen BD, van de Poll-Franse L, Hugtenburg JG, van den Hurk CJG, Becker-Commissaris A, Walraven I. SYMptom monitoring with Patient-Reported Outcomes using a web application among patients with Lung cancer in the Netherlands (SYMPRO-Lung): study protocol for a stepped-wedge randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2021; 11:e052494. [PMID: 34518276 PMCID: PMC8438957 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-052494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lung cancer and its treatment cause a wide range of symptoms impacting the patients' health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The use of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) to monitor symptoms during and after cancer treatment has been shown not only to improve symptom management but also to improve HRQoL and overall survival (OS). Collectively, these results favour implementation of PRO-symptom monitoring in daily clinical care. However, these promising outcomes have been obtained under trial conditions in which patients were selected based on stringent inclusion criteria, and in countries with a dissimilar healthcare system than in the Netherlands.The primary aim of the SYMptom monitoring with Patient-Reported Outcomes using a web application among patients with Lung cancer in the Netherlands (SYMPRO-Lung) study is to evaluate the effect of PRO-symptom monitoring during and after lung cancer treatment on HRQoL in daily clinical practice. Secondary objectives include assessing the effect of PRO-symptom monitoring on progression-free survival, OS, the incidence and grade of PRO symptoms, medication adherence, implementation fidelity and cost-effectiveness. METHODS AND ANALYSIS The SYMPRO-Lung study is a prospective, multicentre trial with a stepped wedge cluster randomised design. Study participants (n=292 intervention, n=292 controls) include patients with lung cancer (stages I-IV) starting treatment with surgery, systemic treatment, targeted treatment and/or radiotherapy.Every participating centre will consecutively switch from the control period to the intervention period, in which patients report their symptoms weekly via an online tool. In the intervention group, we evaluate two alert approaches: the active and reactive approach. If the symptoms exceed a predefined threshold, an alert is sent to the healthcare provider (active approach) or to the patient (reactive approach). Both the control and intervention group complete HRQoL questionnaires at 4 time points: at baseline, 15 weeks, 6 months and 1-year post treatment). Differences in HRQoL between the groups will be compared using linear mixed modelling analyses, accounting for within-centre clustering, potential time effects and confounding. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board and the Medical Ethics Committee of the Amsterdam UMC (under number NL 68440.029.18) and the institutional review boards of the participating study sites. The dissemination of the results will be conducted through publication in peer-reviewed journals and through scientific conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Trial register identifier: Netherlands Trial register Trial NL7897. Date of registration: 24 July 2019. https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/7897.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole E Billingy
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Vashti N M F Tromp
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Evalien Veldhuijzen
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Jose Belderbos
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Neil K Aaronson
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Esther Feldman
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Rianne Hoek
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Harm-Jan Bogaard
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Bregje D Onwuteaka-Philipsen
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Lonneke van de Poll-Franse
- Division of Psychosocial Research and Epidemiology, Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
- CoRPS - Center of Research on Psychological and Somatic Disorders, Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, Noord-Brabant, The Netherlands
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Tilburg, Noord-Brabant, The Netherlands
| | - Jacqueline G Hugtenburg
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Corina J G van den Hurk
- Department of Research and Development, Netherlands Comprehensive Cancer Organisation (IKNL), Tilburg, Noord-Brabant, The Netherlands
| | - Annemarie Becker-Commissaris
- Department of Pulmonary Diseases, Amsterdam UMC Location VUmc, Cancer Center Amsterdam, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Iris Walraven
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Gelderland, The Netherlands
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Feasibility, acceptability, and efficacy of online supportive care for individuals living with and beyond lung cancer: a systematic review. Support Care Cancer 2021; 29:6995-7011. [PMID: 34008080 PMCID: PMC8130779 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-021-06274-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Purpose To examine the evidence of the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of online supportive care interventions for people living with and beyond lung cancer (LWBLC). Methods Studies were identified through searches of Medline, EMBASE, PsychINFO, and CINAHL databases using a structured search strategy. The inclusion criteria (1) examined the feasibility, acceptability, and/or efficacy of an online intervention aiming to provide supportive care for people living with and beyond lung cancer; (2) delivered an intervention in a single arm or RCT study pre/post design; (3) if a mixed sample, presented independent lung cancer data. Results Eight studies were included; two randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Included studies reported on the following outcomes: feasibility and acceptability of an online, supportive care intervention, and/or changes in quality of life, emotional functioning, physical functioning, and/or symptom distress. Conclusion Preliminary evidence suggests that online supportive care among individuals LWBLC is feasible and acceptable, although there is little high-level evidence. Most were small pilot and feasibility studies, suggesting that online supportive care in this group is in its infancy. The integration of online supportive care into the cancer pathway may improve quality of life, physical and emotional functioning, and reduce symptom distress. Online modalities of supportive care can increase reach and accessibility of supportive care platforms, which could provide tailored support. People LWBLC display high symptom burden and unmet supportive care needs. More research is needed to address the dearth of literature in online supportive care for people LWBLC. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s00520-021-06274-x.
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16
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The development and initial validation of the Breast Cancer Recurrence instrument (BreastCaRe)-a patient-reported outcome measure for detecting symptoms of recurrence after breast cancer. Qual Life Res 2021; 30:2671-2682. [PMID: 33864164 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-021-02841-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patient-reported outomes (PRO) may facilitate prompt treatment. We describe the development and psychometric properties of the first instrument to monitor for symptoms of breast cancer (BC) recurrence. METHODS This study is nested in the MyHealth randomized trial of nurse-led follow-up based on electronically-collected PROs. We constructed items assessing symptoms of potential recurrence through expert interviews with six BC specialists in Denmark. Semi-structured cognitive interviews were carried out with a patient panel to assess acceptability and comprehensibility. Items were subsequently tested in a population of 1170 women 1-10 years after completing BC treatment. We carried out multiple-groups confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and Rasch analysis to test dimensionality, local dependence (LD) and differential item functioning (DIF) according to sociodemographic and treatment-related factors. Clinical data was obtained from the Danish Breast Cancer Group registry. RESULTS Twenty-two items were generated for the Breast Cancer Recurrence instrument (BreastCaRe). Cognitive testing resulted in clearer items. Seven subscales based on general, bone, liver, lung, brain, locoregional and contralateral recurrence symptoms were proposed. Both CFA and Rasch models confirmed the factor structure. No DIF was identified. Five item pairs showed LD but all items were retained to avoid loss of clinical information. Rasch models taking LD into account were used to generate a standardized scoring table for each subscale. CONCLUSIONS The BreastCaRe has good content and structural validity, patient acceptability and measurement invariance. We are preparing to examine the predictive validity of this new instrument.
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Cho Y, Zhang H, Harris MR, Gong Y, Smith EL, Jiang Y. Acceptance and Use of Home-Based Electronic Symptom Self-Reporting Systems in Patients With Cancer: Systematic Review. J Med Internet Res 2021; 23:e24638. [PMID: 33709929 PMCID: PMC7998328 DOI: 10.2196/24638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Electronic symptom self-reporting systems (e-SRS) have been shown to improve symptoms and survival in patients with cancer. However, patient engagement in using e-SRS for voluntary symptom self-reporting is less optimal. Multiple factors can potentially affect patients' acceptance and engagement in using home-based e-SRS. However, such factors have not been fully explored in cancer populations. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to understand the acceptance and use of home-based e-SRS by patients with cancer and identify associated facilitators and barriers. METHODS PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and PsycINFO (January 2010 to March 2020) were searched using a combination of Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms and keywords such as symptom self-reporting, electronic/technology, cancer, and their synonyms. Included studies focused on the use of home-based e-SRS by patients with cancer and their families. Studies on patients' use of e-SRS in clinical settings only were excluded. Of the 3740 papers retrieved, 33 were included in the final review. Factors associated with patient acceptance and use of e-SRS were extracted and synthesized. RESULTS Most e-SRS were web based (22/33, 66%) or mobile app based (9/33, 27%). The e-SRS initial acceptance, represented by patient enrollment rates, ranged from 40% (22/55) to 100% (100/100). High e-SRS acceptance was rated by 69% (59/85) to 77.6% (337/434) of the patients after they used the system. The e-SRS use, measured by patients' response rates to questionnaires (ranging from 1596/3521, 45.33% to 92%) or system log-on rates (ranging from 4/12, 33% to 99/100, 99%), declined over time in general patterns. Few studies (n=7) reported e-SRS use beyond 6 months, with the response rates ranging from 62% (40/64) to 85.1% (541/636) and the log-on rates ranging from 63.6% (103/162) to 77% (49/64). The availability of compatible devices and technical support, interactive system features, information accessibility, privacy, questionnaire quality, patient physical/psychosocial status, and age were associated with patient acceptance and use of home-based e-SRS. CONCLUSIONS Acceptance and use of home-based e-SRS by patients with cancer varied significantly across studies, as assessed by a variety of approaches. The lack of access to technology has remained a barrier to e-SRS adoption. Interactive system features and personalized questionnaires may increase patient engagement. More studies are needed to further understand patients' long-term use of home-based e-SRS behavior patterns to develop personalized interventions to support symptom self-management and self-reporting of patients with cancer for optimal health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youmin Cho
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Huiting Zhang
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | | | - Yang Gong
- University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Biomedical Informatics, Houston, TX, United States
| | | | - Yun Jiang
- University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
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Aapro M, Bossi P, Dasari A, Fallowfield L, Gascón P, Geller M, Jordan K, Kim J, Martin K, Porzig S. Digital health for optimal supportive care in oncology: benefits, limits, and future perspectives. Support Care Cancer 2020; 28:4589-4612. [PMID: 32533435 PMCID: PMC7447627 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-020-05539-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digital health provides solutions that capture patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and allows symptom monitoring and patient management. Digital therapeutics is the provision to patients of evidence-based therapeutic interventions through software applications aimed at prevention, monitoring, management, and treatment of symptoms and diseases or for treatment optimization. The digital health solutions collecting PROs address many unmet needs, including access to care and reassurance, increase in adherence and treatment efficacy, and decrease in hospitalizations. With current developments in oncology including increased availability of oral drugs and reduced availability of healthcare professionals, these solutions offer an innovative approach to optimize healthcare resource utilization. DESIGN This scoping review clarifies the role and impact of the digital health solutions in oncology supportive care, with a view of the current segmentation according to their technical features (connection to sensors, PRO collection, remote monitoring, self-management in real time…), and identifies evidence from clinical studies published about their benefits and limitations and drivers and barriers to adoption. A qualitative summary is presented. RESULTS Sixty-six studies were identified and included in the qualitative synthesis. Studies supported the use of 38 digital health solutions collecting ePROs and allowing remote monitoring, with benefits to patients regarding symptom reporting and management, reduction in symptom distress, decrease in unplanned hospitalizations and related costs and improved quality of life and survival. Among those 38 solutions 21 provided patient self-management with impactful symptom support, improvement of QoL, usefulness and reassurance. Principal challenges are in developing and implementing digital solutions to suit most patients, while ensuring patient compliance and adaptability for use in different healthcare systems and living environments. CONCLUSIONS There is growing evidence that digital health collecting ePROs provide benefits to patients related to clinical and health economic endpoints. These digital solutions can be integrated into routine supportive care in oncology practice to provide improved patient-centered care.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Aapro
- Medical Oncology, Genolier Cancer Center, Clinique de Genolier, Genolier, Switzerland.
- Institut Multidisciplinaire d'Oncologie (IMO), Clinique de Genolier, Case Postale (PO Box) 100, 1 Route de Muids, CH-1272, Genolier, Switzerland.
| | - P Bossi
- Department of Medical Oncology, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - A Dasari
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - L Fallowfield
- Sussex Health Outcomes Research & Education in Cancer (SHORE-C), Brighton & Sussex Medical School, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK
| | - P Gascón
- Department of Hematology-Oncology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Geller
- Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health (OBGYN), University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - K Jordan
- Department of Medicine, Haematology, Oncology and Rheumatology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - J Kim
- Medical Oncology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - K Martin
- Gyneco-oncology, Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - S Porzig
- Medical Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Jones HV, Smith H, Cooksley T, Jones P, Woolley T, Gwyn Murdoch D, Thomas D, Foster B, Wakefield V, Innominato P, Mullard A, Ghosal N, Subbe C. Checklists for Complications During Systemic Cancer Treatment Shared by Patients, Friends, and Health Care Professionals: Prospective Interventional Cohort Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e19225. [PMID: 32975526 PMCID: PMC7540918 DOI: 10.2196/19225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 08/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Advances in cancer management have been associated with an increased incidence of emergency presentations with disease- or treatment-related complications. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to measure the ability of patients and members of their social network to complete checklists for complications of systemic treatment for cancer and examine the impact on patient-centered and health-economic outcomes. METHODS A prospective interventional cohort study was performed to assess the impact of a smartphone app used by patients undergoing systemic cancer therapy and members of their network to monitor for common complications. The app was used by patients, a nominated "safety buddy," and acute oncology services. The control group was made up of patients from the same institution. Measures were based on process (completion of checklists over 60 days), patient experience outcomes (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the General version of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy at baseline, 1 month, and 2 months) and health-economic outcomes (usage of appointments in primary care and elective and unscheduled hospital admissions). RESULTS At the conclusion of the study, 50 patients had completed 2882 checklists, and their 50 "safety buddies" had completed 318 checklists. Near daily usage was maintained over the 60-day study period. When compared to a cohort of 50 patients with matching disease profiles from the same institution, patients in the intervention group had comparable changes in Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and General version of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy. Patients in the Intervention Group required a third (32 vs 97 nights) of the hospital days with overnight stay compared to patients in the Control Group, though the difference was not significant. The question, "I feel safer with the checklist," received a mean score of 4.27 (SD 0.87) on a Likert scale (1-5) for patients and 4.55 (SD 0.65) for family and friends. CONCLUSIONS Patients undergoing treatment for cancer and their close contacts can complete checklists for common complications of systemic treatments and take an active role in systems supporting their own safety. A larger sample size will be needed to assess the impact on clinical outcomes and health economics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen V Jones
- Ysbyty Gwynedd, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, United Kingdom
| | - Harry Smith
- School of Medicine, Cardiff Univeristy, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Toby Woolley
- Ysbyty Gwynedd, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Betty Foster
- North Wales Cancer Forum, Bangor, United Kingdom
| | | | - Pasquale Innominato
- Ysbyty Gwynedd, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, United Kingdom.,Cancer Chronotherapy Team, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, United Kingdom.,European Laboratory U935, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Paris-Saclay University, Villejuif, France
| | - Anna Mullard
- Ysbyty Gwynedd, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, United Kingdom
| | | | - Christian Subbe
- School of Medical Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
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20
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Friis RB, Hjollund NH, Mejdahl CT, Pappot H, Skuladottir H. Electronic symptom monitoring in patients with metastatic lung cancer: a feasibility study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035673. [PMID: 32554725 PMCID: PMC7304800 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035673] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To design an electronic questionnaire for symptom monitoring and to evaluate the feasibility, usability and acceptability when applied to patients with metastatic lung cancer. SETTING Single-centre feasibility study. PARTICIPANTS Patients with stage IV lung cancer in antineoplastic treatment. INTERVENTIONS This study describes the first three phases of a complex intervention design: phase 1, development of the intervention; phase 2, feasibility testing and phase 3, evaluation of the intervention. In phase 1, items were selected for the questionnaire and adjusted following patient interviews. In phase 2, patients completed the electronic questionnaire weekly during a 3-week feasibility test. In case of symptom deterioration, a nurse was notified with the aim to contact the patient. In phase 3, patients evaluated phase 2 by paper questionnaires, and interviews were conducted with the participating nurses. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURES The study outcomes: phase 1, usability and relevance; phase 2, recruitment rate, compliance and threshold functionality and phase 3, usability, acceptability and relevance. RESULTS In phase 1, a questionnaire was designed and reviewed by patients (n=8). The interviews revealed high usability and relevance of the intervention.For phases 2 and 3, 20 of 29 approached patients (69%) responded to the questionnaire on a weekly basis. Two patients did not complete any questionnaires (compliance 90%). The remaining 18 patients completed 65 of a total of 72 possible questionnaires (7 missed, 93% completed). Reported symptoms led to a phone call from a nurse in 30% of the responses.The patients reported high usability and acceptability of questionnaire and software. The substance of the telephonic conversations was relevant, and the study set-up was logistically acceptable. CONCLUSIONS An electronic questionnaire designed for symptom monitoring revealed high usability, acceptability and relevance in the target population. In conclusion, the study set-up was considered feasible for a randomised controlled trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03529851.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Niels Henrik Hjollund
- AmbuFlex, Occupational Medicine, University Research Clinic, Aarhus University, Hospital Unit West Jutland, Herning, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Epidemiology, Aarhus University Hospital Skejby, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Caroline Trillingsgaard Mejdahl
- AmbuFlex, Occupational Medicine, University Research Clinic, Aarhus University, Hospital Unit West Jutland, Herning, Denmark
| | - Helle Pappot
- Department of Oncology, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Halla Skuladottir
- Department of Oncology, Hospital Unit West Jutland, Herning, Denmark
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21
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Henson LA, Maddocks M, Evans C, Davidson M, Hicks S, Higginson IJ. Palliative Care and the Management of Common Distressing Symptoms in Advanced Cancer: Pain, Breathlessness, Nausea and Vomiting, and Fatigue. J Clin Oncol 2020; 38:905-914. [PMID: 32023162 PMCID: PMC7082153 DOI: 10.1200/jco.19.00470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Good symptom management in oncology is associated with improved patient and family quality of life, greater treatment compliance, and may even offer survival advantages. With population growth and aging, the proportion of patients with multiple symptoms-both related and unrelated to their cancer-is anticipated to increase, supporting calls for a more routine and integrated approach to symptom management. This article presents a summary of the literature for the use of symptom assessment tools and reviews the management of four common and distressing symptoms commonly experienced by people with advanced cancer: pain, breathlessness, nausea and vomiting, and fatigue. We also discuss the role of palliative care in supporting a holistic approach to symptom management throughout the cancer trajectory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley A. Henson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, London, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Maddocks
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, London, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Evans
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Davidson
- King’s College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Stephanie Hicks
- King’s College Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, Denmark Hill, London, United Kingdom
| | - Irene J. Higginson
- Cicely Saunders Institute of Palliative Care, Policy and Rehabilitation, London, United Kingdom
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22
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Bertucci F, Le Corroller-Soriano AG, Monneur A, Fluzin S, Viens P, Maraninchi D, Goncalves A. [E-health and "Cancer outside the hospital walls", Big Data and artificial intelligence]. Bull Cancer 2019; 107:102-112. [PMID: 31543271 DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2019.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
To heal otherwise in oncology has become an imperative of Public Health and an economic imperative in France. Patients can therefore receive live most of their care outside of hospital with more ambulatory care. This ambulatory shift will benefit from the digital revolution and the development of digital health or e-health. Cancer research will also benefit with Big Data and artificial intelligence, which gather and analyze a huge amount of data. In this synthesis, we describe the different e-health tools and their potential impacts in oncology, at the levels of education and information of patients and caregivers, prevention, screening and diagnosis, treatment, follow-up, and research. A few randomized studies have already demonstrated clinical benefits. Large Big Data projects such as ConSoRe and Health Data Hub have been launched in France. We also discuss the issues and limitations of "cancer outside the hospital walls and e-health" from the point of view of patients, health care professionals, health facilities and government. This new organization will have to provide remote support "outside the walls" with care and follow-up of quality, continuous and prolonged in total safety and equity. Ongoing and future randomized clinical trials will need to definitively demonstrate areas of interest, advantages and drawbacks not only for patients, but also for caregivers, health facilities and governments.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Bertucci
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, département d'oncologie médicale, 13009 Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille université, Centre de recherche en cancérologie de Marseille, Inserm U1068-CNRS U7258, 13009 Marseille, France.
| | - Anne-Gaëlle Le Corroller-Soriano
- Aix-Marseille université, SESSTIM, Sciences économiques & sociales de la santé & traitement de l'information médicale, Inserm UMR912, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Audrey Monneur
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, département d'oncologie médicale, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Sylvain Fluzin
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, direction du système d'information et de l'organisation, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Patrice Viens
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, département d'oncologie médicale, 13009 Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille université, Centre de recherche en cancérologie de Marseille, Inserm U1068-CNRS U7258, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Dominique Maraninchi
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, département d'oncologie médicale, 13009 Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille université, Centre de recherche en cancérologie de Marseille, Inserm U1068-CNRS U7258, 13009 Marseille, France
| | - Anthony Goncalves
- Institut Paoli-Calmettes, département d'oncologie médicale, 13009 Marseille, France; Aix-Marseille université, Centre de recherche en cancérologie de Marseille, Inserm U1068-CNRS U7258, 13009 Marseille, France
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23
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Osborn J, Ajakaiye A, Cooksley T, Subbe CP. Do mHealth applications improve clinical outcomes of patients with cancer? A critical appraisal of the peer-reviewed literature. Support Care Cancer 2019; 28:1469-1479. [PMID: 31273501 PMCID: PMC6989578 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-019-04945-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Patients undergoing systemic anti-cancer treatment experience distressing side effects, and these symptoms are often experienced outside the hospital setting. The impact of usage of cancer-related mobile health (mHealth) applications on patient-related outcomes requires investigation. Methods A critical appraisal of the literature was performed for the following question: ‘In patients with cancer have mHealth applications been compared with usual care to examine impact on commonly used clinical outcomes’. Literature searches were undertaken with the help of a research librarian and included Medline, Cochrane Collaboration, clinical trial databases and grey searches. Results Seventeen studies including between 12 and 2352 patients were identified and reviewed. Smartphone applications or internet portals collected data on symptoms or patient activity. Several studies showed statistically significant differences in patient-reported outcomes when symptom monitoring using mobile health application was compared to usual care. Change in mobility was the only outcome that was related directly to toxicity. Only limited data on mortality, cancer-related morbidity including complications of care, health-economic outcomes or long-term outcomes were reported. Conclusions Studies on mHealth applications might improve aspects of symptom control in patients with cancer, but there is currently little evidence for impact on other outcomes. This requires future research in interventional studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemima Osborn
- Ysbyty Gwynedd, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2PW, UK
| | - Anu Ajakaiye
- Ysbyty Gwynedd, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2PW, UK
| | - Tim Cooksley
- The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Wilmslow Rd, Manchester, M20 4BX, UK
| | - Christian P Subbe
- Ysbyty Gwynedd, Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2PW, UK. .,School of Medical Sciences, Bangor University, Brigantia Building, Penrallt Road, Bangor, Gwynedd, LL57 2AS, UK.
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24
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Lizée T, Basch E, Trémolières P, Voog E, Domont J, Peyraga G, Urban T, Bennouna J, Septans AL, Balavoine M, Detournay B, Denis F. Cost-Effectiveness of Web-Based Patient-Reported Outcome Surveillance in Patients With Lung Cancer. J Thorac Oncol 2019; 14:1012-1020. [PMID: 30776447 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtho.2019.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A multicenter randomized clinical trial in France found an overall survival benefit of web-based patient-reported outcome (PRO)-based surveillance after initial treatment for lung cancer compared with conventional surveillance. The aim of this study was to assess the cost-effectiveness of this PRO-based surveillance in lung cancer patients. METHODS This medico-economic analysis used data from the clinical trial, augmented by abstracted chart data and costs of consultations, imaging, transportations, information technology, and treatments. Costs were calculated based on actual reimbursement rates in France, and health utilities were estimated based on scientific literature review. Willingness-to-pay thresholds of €30,000 per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) and €90,000 per QALY were used to define a very cost-effective and cost-effective strategy, respectively. Average annual costs of experimental and control surveillance approaches were calculated. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was expressed as cost per life-year gained and QALY gained, from the health insurance payer perspective. One-way and multivariate probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. RESULTS Average annual cost of surveillance follow-up was €362 lower per patient in the PRO arm (€941/year/patient) compared to control (€1,304/year/patient). The PRO approach presented an incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of €12,127 per life-year gained and €20,912 per QALY gained. The probabilities that the experimental strategy is very cost-effective and cost-effective were 97% and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Surveillance of lung cancer patients using web-based PRO reduced the follow-up costs. Compared to conventional monitoring, this surveillance modality represents a cost-effective strategy and should be considered in cancer care delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibaut Lizée
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jean Bernard Center, Inter-Regional Institute of Oncology, Le Mans, France.
| | - Ethan Basch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jean Bernard Center, Inter-Regional Institute of Oncology, Le Mans, France; Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
| | - Pierre Trémolières
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jean Bernard Center, Inter-Regional Institute of Oncology, Le Mans, France
| | - Eric Voog
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jean Bernard Center, Inter-Regional Institute of Oncology, Le Mans, France
| | - Julien Domont
- Department of Medical Oncology, Jean Bernard Center, Inter-Regional Institute of Oncology, Le Mans, France
| | - Guillaume Peyraga
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jean Bernard Center, Inter-Regional Institute of Oncology, Le Mans, France
| | - Thierry Urban
- Department of Pneumology, University Hospital Center, Angers, France
| | - Jaafar Bennouna
- Department of Medical Oncology, University Hospital Center, Nantes, France
| | | | | | | | - Fabrice Denis
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Jean Bernard Center, Inter-Regional Institute of Oncology, Le Mans, France
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25
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Outpatient Cancer Care Delivery in the Context of E-Oncology: A French Perspective on "Cancer outside the Hospital Walls". Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11020219. [PMID: 30769858 PMCID: PMC6406853 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11020219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 01/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
In oncology, the treatment of patients outside of hospitals has become imperative due to an increasing number of patients who are older and live longer, along with issues such as medical desertification, oncologist hyperspecialization, and difficulties in financing mounting health expenditures. Treatments have become less "invasive", with greater precision and efficiency. Patients can therefore receive most of their care outside of hospitals. The development of e-health can address these new imperatives. In this letter, we describe the different e-health tools and their potential clinical impacts in oncology, as already reported at every level of care, including education, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. A few randomized studies have yet demonstrated the clinical benefit. We also comment on issues and limits of "cancer outside the hospital walls" from the point of view of patients, health care professionals, health facilities, and public authorities. Care providers in hospitals and communities will have to adapt to these changes within well-coordinated networks in order to better meet patient expectations regarding increasing education and personalizing management. Ultimately, controlled studies should aim to definitively demonstrate areas of interest, benefits, and incentives, for not only patients, but also caregivers (formal and informal) and health care providers, health care facilities, and the nation.
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26
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Perlow HK, Ramey SJ, Cassidy V, Kwon D, Farnia B, Nicolli E, Samuels MA, Freedman L, Elsayyad N, Yechieli R, Samuels SE. Disparities in adherence to head and neck cancer follow-up guidelines. Laryngoscope 2018; 129:2303-2308. [PMID: 30582620 DOI: 10.1002/lary.27676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In this study, we aim to determine the frequency of adherence to National Comprehensive Cancer Network follow-up guidelines in a population of head and neck cancer patients who received curative treatment. We will also assess the impact of race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and treatment setting on utilization of follow-up care. METHODS This study included patients with biopsy-proven, nonmetastatic oropharyngeal or laryngeal cancer treated with radiotherapy between January 1, 2014, and June 30, 2016, at a safety-net hospital or adjacent private academic hospital. Components of follow-up care analyzed included an appointment with a surgeon or radiation oncologist within 3 months and posttreatment imaging of the primary site within 6 months. Univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted using a logistic regression model to estimate odds ratios and corresponding 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS Two hundred and thirty-four patients were included in this study. Of those, 88.8% received posttreatment imaging of the primary site within 6 months; 88.5% attended a follow-up appointment with a radiation oncologist within 3 months; and 71.1% of patients attended a follow-up appointment with a surgeon within 3 months. On multivariable analysis, private academic hospital treatment versus safety-net hospital treatment was associated with increased utilization of both surgical and radiation oncology follow-up. Non-Hispanic black (NHB) patients, Hispanic patients, and those with a low socioeconomic status were also less likely to receive follow-up. CONCLUSION Safety-net hospital treatment, socioeconomic status, Hispanic ethnicity, and NHB race were associated with decreased follow-up service utilization. Quality improvement initiatives are needed to reduce these disparities. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE 2b Laryngoscope, 129:2303-2308, 2019.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stephen J Ramey
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, Florida, U.S.A
| | | | - Deukwoo Kwon
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Benjamin Farnia
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Jackson Memorial Hospital, Miami, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Elizabeth Nicolli
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.,Department of Otolaryngology, Miami, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Michael A Samuels
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Laura Freedman
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Nagy Elsayyad
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Raphael Yechieli
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, U.S.A
| | - Stuart E Samuels
- Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, Miami, Florida, U.S.A.,Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Miami, Miami, Florida, U.S.A
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Denis F, Voog E, Pointreau Y, Bourgeois H, Seegers V, Le Du K. Prospective study of a web-mediated management of febrile neutropenia related to chemotherapy (Bioconnect). Support Care Cancer 2018; 27:2189-2194. [PMID: 30306327 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-018-4505-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We aimed to investigate whether patient self-evaluated symptoms transmitted via Internet is feasible between planned visits to provide an early management of fever and neutropenia induced by chemotherapy, and if it can reduce hospitalizations for severe neutropenia. METHODS Patients who received a chemotherapy regimen with an overall risk of febrile neutropenia ≥ 20% had to report daily temperature between physician planned visits using a web application. Fever and clinical signs of seriousness were reported to the physician (if some criteria were fulfilled in a specific algorithm) via automatic email notifications by the web application. Patients could be hospitalized quickly or could take over at home, make blood count, and take predefined oral antibiotics if indicated. Primary outcome was patient's compliance and satisfaction. The number and the cost of hospitalization were also assessed and compared with an historical cohort of patients with similar clinical conditions and treatment. RESULTS Among the 41 patients included, 36 (87.8%) used the web application with 88% of daily compliance and 90% (28/33) of satisfaction. One patient (2.7%) had planned hospitalization after the web application alert. In the historical cohort, the rate of unplanned hospitalization for febrile neutropenia was 17% (6 patients) and 2.7% (1 patient) in users of the web application cohort. The cumulative cost of hospitalization for neutropenia was USD 28,827 in the historical cohort and USD 6563 in the web application cohort. CONCLUSION Web-mediated follow-up of febrile neutropenia is feasible. It led to high patient satisfaction, high compliance, and a possible reduction of the number and the cost of hospitalizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrice Denis
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, 9 rue Beauverger, Le Mans, France. .,CORIA UMR 6614-Normandie Université, CNRS - Université et INSA de Rouen, Campus Universitaire du Madrillet, F-76800, Saint-Étienne-du-Rouvray, France.
| | - Eric Voog
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, 9 rue Beauverger, Le Mans, France
| | - Yoann Pointreau
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, 9 rue Beauverger, Le Mans, France
| | - Hugues Bourgeois
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, 9 rue Beauverger, Le Mans, France
| | - Valérie Seegers
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest Paul Papin, 15 rue A Boquel, 49100, Angers, France
| | - Katell Le Du
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, 9 rue Beauverger, Le Mans, France
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Denis F, Koontz BF, Letellier C. Application and Benefits of Web-Mediated Symptom Reporting for Patients Undergoing Immunotherapy: A Clinical Example. Case Rep Oncol 2018; 11:763-768. [PMID: 30627090 PMCID: PMC6323363 DOI: 10.1159/000494829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Two randomized studies of symptom monitoring during chemotherapy or during second line treatment and follow-up via web-based patient-reported outcomes (PROs) was previously demonstrated to lengthen survival. We are presenting here a patient with advanced and recurrent lung cancer who was followed for 4 years by PROs for relapse and adverse events detection. We report how the web-mediated follow-up helped to detect dangerous pulmonary embolism, relapse and pseudo-progression to immunotherapy by self-reported symptom tracking and specific algorithms triggering notifications to medical team, allowing early management of events. We particularly describe how a discordance between objective clinical improvement under immunotherapy assessed by the application allowed to detect pseudo-progression on imaging and allowed maintenance of the treatment during more than 1-year, although imaging report could have led to stop an effective therapy. The progression observed in the routine imaging was indeed in clear contradiction with improvements in patient's global status as assessed by the reduced PRO-score computed from patient self-reported symptoms. The ability of e-health tools based on symptoms reporting for tumor response assessment should be assessed in trials to help physician in decision of stopping or continuing therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrice Denis
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, 9 rue Beauverger, Le Mans, France
- Normandie Université - CORIA, Campus Universitaire du Madrillet, Saint-Etienne du Rouvray, France
| | - Bridget F. Koontz
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Duke Cancer Institute, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Christophe Letellier
- Normandie Université - CORIA, Campus Universitaire du Madrillet, Saint-Etienne du Rouvray, France
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[A close web-based patient follow-up improves overall survival in lung cancer patients]. Strahlenther Onkol 2018; 194:604-606. [PMID: 29582091 DOI: 10.1007/s00066-018-1297-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Abstract
E-health is fashionable, but clinical evidence of its usefulness is rare and limited to reporting symptoms without specific analysis. The Chaos theory is applicable to the dynamics of the cancer and brings possibilities of use of its properties to develop useful, relevant and validated tools for cancer patients monitoring. The Chaos theory is applicable to the understanding of tumor dynamics due to interactions between tumor, host, endothelial and immune cells. Observability theory is one of its properties which suggests that the follow-up of the host (the patient via its symptoms and its weight) is a strong variable to evaluate the dynamics of the disease and its impact. Intensive follow-up and analysis of patients' symptoms to detect recurrences and clinical complications via a web-application (MoovcareTM) demonstrated its interest in nearly 300 patients in 4 prospective studies including 1 pilot trial showing a benefit of 27% survival rate at 1 year, and a randomized phase 3 trial with a 26% 1-year survival improvement as compared to a conventional follow-up. Six other intensive follow-up studies show favorable results in oncology for a total of more than 2,000 randomized patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrice Denis
- Institut inter-régional de cancérologie Jean Bernard, 9, rue Beauverger, 72000 Le Mans, France - CORIA UMR 6614-Normandie université, CNRS - université et INSA de Rouen, campus universitaire du Madrillet, F-76800 Saint-Étienne du Rouvray, France
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El Shafie RA, Bougatf N, Sprave T, Weber D, Oetzel D, Machmer T, Huber PE, Debus J, Nicolay NH. Oncologic Therapy Support Via Means of a Dedicated Mobile App (OPTIMISE-1): Protocol for a Prospective Pilot Trial. JMIR Res Protoc 2018; 7:e70. [PMID: 29510971 PMCID: PMC5861302 DOI: 10.2196/resprot.8915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The increasing role of consumer electronics and Web-enabled mobile devices in the medical sector opens up promising possibilities for integrating novel technical solutions into therapy and patient support for oncologic illnesses. A recent survey carried out at Heidelberg University Hospital suggested a high acceptance among patients for an additional approach to patient care during radiotherapy based on patient-reported outcomes by a dedicated mobile app. OBJECTIVE The aim of this trial (OPTIMISE-1: Oncologic Therapy Support Via Means of a Dedicated Mobile App - A Prospective Feasibility Evaluation) is to prospectively evaluate the feasibility of employing a mobile app for the systematic support of radiooncological patients throughout the course of their radiotherapy by monitoring symptoms and patient performance, and facilitating the background-exchange of relevant information between patient and physician. METHODS The present single-center, prospective, exploratory trial, conducted at Heidelberg University Hospital, assesses the feasibility of integrating an app-based approach into patient-care during radiotherapy. Patients undergoing curative radiotherapy for thoracic or pelvic tumors will be surveyed regarding general performance, treatment-related quality of life (QoL) and symptoms, and their need to personally consult a physician by means of a mobile app during treatment. The primary endpoint of feasibility will be reached when 80% of the patients have successfully answered 80% of their respective questions scheduled for each treatment day. Furthermore, treatment-related patient satisfaction and health-related QoL is assessed by the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form (PSQ-18) and the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) questionnaires at the beginning (baseline) and end of radiotherapy, and at the first follow-up. RESULTS This trial will recruit 50 patients over a period of 12 months. Follow-up will be completed after 18 months, and publication of results is planned at 24 months after trial initiation. CONCLUSIONS This study will serve as a basis for future studies aiming to exploit the constant innovation in mobile medical appliances and integrate novel patient-centered concepts into patient care in the context of radiotherapy. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03168048; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03168048 (Archived at WebCite http://www.webcitation.org/6wtWGgi0X).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rami A El Shafie
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Institute for Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nina Bougatf
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Institute for Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Ion Beam Therapy Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Tanja Sprave
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Institute for Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dorothea Weber
- Institute for Medical Biometry and Informatics, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Dieter Oetzel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Institute for Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Peter E Huber
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Institute for Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jürgen Debus
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Institute for Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Ion Beam Therapy Center, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nils H Nicolay
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany.,Heidelberg Institute for Radiation Oncology, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Radiation Oncology, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany.,Department of Radiation Oncology, Freiburg University Medical Center, Freiburg, Germany
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Kessel KA, Vogel MM, Alles A, Dobiasch S, Fischer H, Combs SE. Mobile App Delivery of the EORTC QLQ-C30 Questionnaire to Assess Health-Related Quality of Life in Oncological Patients: Usability Study. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2018; 6:e45. [PMID: 29463489 PMCID: PMC5840479 DOI: 10.2196/mhealth.9486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2017] [Revised: 12/27/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile apps are evolving in the medical field. However, ongoing discussions have questioned whether such apps are really valuable and whether patients will accept their use in day-to-day clinical life. Therefore, we initiated a usability study in our department. Objective We present our results of the first app prototype and patient testing of health-related quality of life (HRQoL) assessment in oncological patients. Methods We developed an app prototype for the iOS operating system within eight months in three phases: conception, initial development, and pilot testing. For the HRQoL assessment, we chose to implement only the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30 (QLQ-C30; German version 3). Usability testing was conducted for three months. Participation was voluntary and pseudonymized. After completion of the QLQ-C30 questionnaire using iPads provided by our department, we performed a short survey with 10 questions. This survey inquired about patients’ opinions regarding general aspects, including technical advances in medicine, mobile and app assistance during cancer treatment, and the app-specific functions (eg, interface and navigation). Results After logging into the app, the user can choose between starting a questionnaire, reviewing answers (administrators only), and logging out. The questionnaire is displayed with the same information, questions, and answers as on the original QLQ-C30 sheet. No alterations in wording were made. Usability was tested with 81 patients; median age was 55 years. The median time for completing the HRQoL questionnaire on the iPad was 4.0 minutes. Of all participants, 84% (68/81) owned a mobile device. Similarly, 84% (68/81) of participants would prefer a mobile version of the HRQoL questionnaire instead of a paper-based version. Using the app in daily life during and after cancer treatment would be supported by 83% (67/81) of participants. In the prototype version of the app, data were stored on the device; in the future, 79% (64/81) of the patients would agree to transfer data via the Internet. Conclusions Our usability test showed good results regarding attractiveness, operability, and understandability. Moreover, our results demonstrate a high overall acceptance of mobile apps and telemedicine in oncology. The HRQoL assessment via the app was accepted thoroughly by patients, and individuals are keen to use it in clinical routines, while data privacy and security must be ensured.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin A Kessel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Marco Me Vogel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Anna Alles
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sophie Dobiasch
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Hanna Fischer
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stephanie E Combs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
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A pilot study of an accelerometer-equipped smartphone to monitor older adults with cancer receiving chemotherapy in Mexico. J Geriatr Oncol 2017; 9:145-151. [PMID: 29017891 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgo.2017.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 09/28/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Older adults with cancer in developing countries face challenges accessing healthcare due to a lack of personnel and infrastructure. A decline in physical activity (defined as a decrease in the number of daily steps) may be a novel method for the timely detection of toxicity in older adults receiving chemotherapy in resource-constrained settings. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this feasibility study, patients aged ≥65years starting first-line chemotherapy for solid tumors were given a smartphone with a pedometer application. Daily steps were monitored daily for one cycle. If a ≥15% decrease from baseline was identified, the patient was called and the presence of toxicity assessed. The intervention would be feasible if ≥75% of the subjects recorded steps for ≥75% of the planned chemotherapy days. RESULTS Forty patients (median age 73; 57% [N=23] female) were included. Seventy percent (N=28) had stage III-IV disease with 45% (N=18) gastrointestinal, 23% (N=9) breast, and 32% (N=13) other malignancies. Mean pre-treatment daily steps was 3111 (Standard Deviation [SD] 1731), and median follow-up was 21days (range 2-28). Despite having limited exposure to mobile technology, most (93%) patients used the smartphone appropriately, and 85% found it easy to use. Sixty percent of patients (N=24) had toxicities managed over the phone, 27.5% (N=10) were sent for urgent medical attention and 15% (N=6) were hospitalized. CONCLUSION Using smartphones to monitor older adults with cancer receiving chemotherapy in a resource-constrained setting is feasible and acceptable. A decrease in the number of daily steps was common and helped to identify chemotherapy toxicity.
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Improving Survival in Patients Treated for a Lung Cancer Using Self-Evaluated Symptoms Reported Through a Web Application. Am J Clin Oncol 2017; 40:464-469. [DOI: 10.1097/coc.0000000000000189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Domblides C, Chaabane N, Wislez M. Vers de nouvelles modalités de surveillance des patients ayant un cancer du poumon ? Bull Cancer 2017; 104:703-704. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bulcan.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/18/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Kessel KA, Vogel MM, Kessel C, Bier H, Biedermann T, Friess H, Herschbach P, von Eisenhart-Rothe R, Meyer B, Kiechle M, Keller U, Peschel C, Schmid RM, Combs SE. Mobile Health in Oncology: A Patient Survey About App-Assisted Cancer Care. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2017; 5:e81. [PMID: 28615159 PMCID: PMC5489709 DOI: 10.2196/mhealth.7689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In the last decade, the health care sector has been enriched by numerous innovations such as apps and connected devices that assist users in weight reduction and diabetes management. However, only a few native apps in the oncological context exist, which support patients during treatment and aftercare. Objective The objective of this study was to analyze patients’ acceptance regarding app use and to investigate the functions of an oncological app that are most required, and the primary reasons for patients to refuse app-assisted cancer care. Methods We designed and conducted a survey with 23 questions, inquiring patients about their technical knowledge and equipment, as well as the possible advantages and disadvantages, data transfer, and general functionality of an app. Results A total of 375 patients participated; the participation rate was 60.7% (375/618). Gender distribution was about 3:4 (female:male) with a median age of 59 years (range 18-92 years). Whereas 69.6% (261/375) of patients used mobile devices, 16.3% (61/375) did not own one, and 9.1% (34/375) only used a personal computer (PC). About half of the patients rated their usability skills as very good and good (18.9% 71/375; 35.2% 132/375), 23.5% (88/375) described their skills as intermediate, and 14.4% (54/375) as bad. Of all patients, 182 (48.5%, 182/375) were willing to send data to their treating clinic via an app, that is, to a server (61.0% 111/182) or as email (33.5%, 61/182). About two-thirds (68.7%, 125/182) believed that additional and regularly sent data would be an ideal complement to the standard follow-up procedure. Additionally, 86.8% (158/182) wished to be contacted by a physician when entered data showed irregularities. Because of lack of skills (34.4%, 56/163), concerns about the use of data (35.0%, 57/163), lack of capable devices (25.8%, 42/163), and the wish for personal contact with the treating physician (47.2%, 77/163), a total of 163 (43.5%, 163/375) patients refused to use an app. Pearson correlation showed a significant but mild relationship between age and app use (P=.03, r=−.12), favoring younger age; male gender correlated as well (P=.04; r=−.11). Conclusions The results show that the introduction of mobile apps needs to follow different strategies depending on the patients’ attitude. Age and gender seem to be the strongest predictive factors. For oncology patients, our survey showed that about half of the patients were willing to send data via an app supporting their treatment. In the future, clinical data such as quality of life and treatment satisfaction recorded by mobile health (mHealth) devices could be used to evaluate and improve therapy workflow. Furthermore, apps could support classical visits, document adverse effects, and remind patients of treatment dates or drug intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Anne Kessel
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy (iRT), Department of Radiation Sciences (DRS), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Marco Me Vogel
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy (iRT), Department of Radiation Sciences (DRS), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Carmen Kessel
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Onkologisches Zentrum im RHCCC am Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Henning Bier
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Tilo Biedermann
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Dermatology and Allergy Biederstein, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Helmut Friess
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Surgery, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Peter Herschbach
- Roman Herzog Comprehensive Cancer Center (RHCCC), Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Rüdiger von Eisenhart-Rothe
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Bernhard Meyer
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Neurosurgery, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Marion Kiechle
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Ulrich Keller
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Christian Peschel
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, 3rd Department of Internal Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Roland M Schmid
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, 2nd Department of Internal Medicine, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Stephanie E Combs
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy (iRT), Department of Radiation Sciences (DRS), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany.,Onkologisches Zentrum im RHCCC am Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
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Denis F, Lethrosne C, Pourel N, Molinier O, Pointreau Y, Domont J, Bourgeois H, Senellart H, Trémolières P, Lizée T, Bennouna J, Urban T, El Khouri C, Charron A, Septans AL, Balavoine M, Landry S, Solal-Céligny P, Letellier C. Randomized Trial Comparing a Web-Mediated Follow-up With Routine Surveillance in Lung Cancer Patients. J Natl Cancer Inst 2017; 109:3573360. [PMID: 28423407 DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djx029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 285] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The use of web-based monitoring for lung cancer patients is growing in interest because of promising recent results suggesting improvement in cancer and resource utilization outcomes. It remains an open question whether the overall survival (OS) in these patients could be improved by using a web-mediated follow-up rather than classical scheduled follow-up and imaging. Methods Advanced-stage lung cancer patients without evidence of disease progression after or during initial treatment were randomly assigned in a multicenter phase III trial to compare a web-mediated follow-up algorithm (experimental arm), based on weekly self-scored patient symptoms, with routine follow-up with CT scans scheduled every three to six months according to the disease stage (control arm). In the experimental arm, an alert email was automatically sent to the oncologist when self-scored symptoms matched predefined criteria. The primary outcome was OS. Results From June 2014 to January 2016, 133 patients were enrolled and 121 were retained in the intent-to-treat analysis; 12 deemed ineligible after random assignment were not subsequently followed. Most of the patients (95.1%) had stage III or IV disease. The median follow-up was nine months. The median OS was 19.0 months (95% confidence interval [CI] = 12.5 to noncalculable) in the experimental and 12.0 months (95% CI = 8.6 to 16.4) in the control arm (one-sided P = .001) (hazard ratio = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.15 to 0.67, one-sided P = .002). The performance status at first detected relapse was 0 to 1 for 75.9% of the patients in the experimental arm and for 32.5% of those in the control arm (two-sided P < .001). Optimal treatment was initiated in 72.4% of the patients in the experimental arm and in 32.5% of those in the control arm (two-sided P < .001). Conclusions A web-mediated follow-up algorithm based on self-reported symptoms improved OS due to early relapse detection and better performance status at relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrice Denis
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, Le Mans, France.,CORIA UMR 6614-Normandie Université, CNRS Université et INSA de Rouen, Campus Universitaire du Madrillet, Saint-Etienne du Rouvray, France
| | - Claire Lethrosne
- Service de pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier, Le Coudray, Chartres, France
| | | | | | - Yoann Pointreau
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, Le Mans, France
| | - Julien Domont
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, Le Mans, France
| | - Hugues Bourgeois
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, Le Mans, France
| | - Hélène Senellart
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest René Gauducheau, St Herblain, France
| | | | - Thibaut Lizée
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest Paul Papin, Angers, France
| | - Jaafar Bennouna
- Institut de Cancérologie de l'Ouest René Gauducheau, St Herblain, France
| | - Thierry Urban
- Service de pneumologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire, Angers, France
| | | | - Alexandre Charron
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, Le Mans, France
| | | | | | - Sébastien Landry
- Institut Inter-régional de Cancérologie Jean Bernard, Le Mans, France
| | | | - Christophe Letellier
- CORIA UMR 6614-Normandie Université, CNRS Université et INSA de Rouen, Campus Universitaire du Madrillet, Saint-Etienne du Rouvray, France
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Nipp R, Temel J. Editorial: The Patient Knows Best: Incorporating Patient-Reported Outcomes Into Routine Clinical Care. J Natl Cancer Inst 2017; 109:3573363. [DOI: 10.1093/jnci/djx044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Nipp
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Jennifer Temel
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
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Vogel MME, Combs SE, Kessel KA. mHealth and Application Technology Supporting Clinical Trials: Today's Limitations and Future Perspective of smartRCTs. Front Oncol 2017; 7:37. [PMID: 28348978 PMCID: PMC5346562 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2017.00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nowadays, applications (apps) for smartphones and tablets have become indispensable especially for young generations. The estimated number of mobile devices will exceed 2.16 billion in 2016. Over 2.2 million apps are available in the Google Play store®, and about 1.8 million apps are available in the Apple App Store®. Google and Apple distribute nearly 70,000 apps each in the category Health and Fitness, and about 33,000 and 46,000 each in medical apps. It seems like the willingness to use mHealth apps is high and the intention to share data for health research is existing. This leads to one conclusion: the time for app-accompanied clinical trials (smartRCTs) has come. In this perspective article, we would like to point out the stones put in the way while trying to implement apps in clinical research. Further, we try to offer a glimpse of what the future of smartRCT research may hold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco M E Vogel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technische Universität München (TUM), Munich, Germany; Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Stephanie E Combs
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technische Universität München (TUM), Munich, Germany; Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Kerstin A Kessel
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Technische Universität München (TUM), Munich, Germany; Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy, Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
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Mobile health application for remote oral cancer surveillance. J Am Dent Assoc 2017; 146:886-94. [PMID: 26610833 DOI: 10.1016/j.adaj.2015.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2014] [Revised: 05/16/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine the effectiveness of a mobile phone-based remote oral cancer surveillance program (Oncogrid) connecting primary care dental practitioners and frontline health care workers (FHW) with oral cancer specialists. METHODS The study population (N = 3,440) included a targeted cohort (n = 2,000) and an opportunistic cohort (n = 1,440) screened by FHW and dental professionals, respectively. The authors compared the screening efficacy in both groups, with specialist diagnosis considered the reference standard. The outcomes measured were lesion detection and capture of interpretable images of the oral cavity. RESULTS In the targeted cohort, among 51 of 81 (61%) interpretable images, 23 of 51 (45%) of the lesions were confirmed by specialists, while the opportunistic cohort showed 100% concordance with the specialists (106 of 106). Sixty-two of 129 (48%) of the recommended patients underwent biopsy; 1 of 23 (4%) were in the targeted cohort, and 61 of 106 (57%) were in the opportunistic cohort. Ninety percent of the lesions were confirmed to be malignant or potentially malignant. CONCLUSIONS The mobile health-based approach adopted in this study aided remote early detection of oral cancer by primary care dental practitioners in a resource-constrained setting. Further optimization of this program is required to adopt the system for FHW. Evaluation of its efficacy in a larger population is also warranted. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS The increased efficiency of early detection by dentists, when assisted by a remote mobile health-based approach, is a step toward a more effective oral cancer screening program.
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Kessel KA, Vogel MME, Schmidt-Graf F, Combs SE. Mobile Apps in Oncology: A Survey on Health Care Professionals' Attitude Toward Telemedicine, mHealth, and Oncological Apps. J Med Internet Res 2016; 18:e312. [PMID: 27884810 PMCID: PMC5146327 DOI: 10.2196/jmir.6399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 11/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Mobile apps are an evolving trend in the medical field. To date, few apps in an oncological context exist. Objective The aim was to analyze the attitude of health care professionals (HCPs) toward telemedicine, mHealth, and mobile apps in the field of oncology. Methods We developed and conducted an online survey with 24 questions evaluating HCPs’ general attitude toward telemedicine and patients using medical mobile apps. Specific questions on the possible functionality for patients and the resulting advantages and disadvantages for both the patients’ and HCPs’ daily clinical routine were evaluated. Results A total of 108 HCPs completed the survey. In all, 88.9% (96/108) considered telemedicine useful and 84.3% (91/108) supported the idea of an oncological app complementing classical treatment. Automatic reminders, timetables, and assessment of side effects and quality of life during therapy were rated as the most important functions. In contrast, uncertainty regarding medical responsibility and data privacy were reasons mostly named by critics. Most (64.8%, 70/108) were in favor of an alert function due to data input needing further clarification, and 94% (66/70) were willing to contact the patient after a critical alert. In all, 93.5% (101/108) supported the idea of using the collected data for scientific research. Moreover, 75.0% (81/108) believed establishing a mobile app could be beneficial for the providing hospital. Conclusions A majority of HCPs are in favor of telemedicine and the use of oncological apps by patients. Assessing side effects can lead to quicker response and thus lower inconvenience for patients. Clinical data, such as life quality and treatment satisfaction, could be used to evaluate and improve the therapy workflow. Eventually, a mobile app would enhance the patients’ relationship to their treating department because they are in permanent contact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin A Kessel
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy (iRT), Department of Radiation Sciences (DRS), Helmholtz Zentrum München (HMGU), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Marco M E Vogel
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy (iRT), Department of Radiation Sciences (DRS), Helmholtz Zentrum München (HMGU), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Friederike Schmidt-Graf
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Neurology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany
| | - Stephanie E Combs
- Klinikum rechts der Isar, Department of Radiation Oncology, Technical University of Munich (TUM), Munich, Germany.,Institute for Innovative Radiotherapy (iRT), Department of Radiation Sciences (DRS), Helmholtz Zentrum München (HMGU), Neuherberg, Germany
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Bender JL, Wiljer D, Sawka AM, Tsang R, Alkazaz N, Brierley JD. Thyroid cancer survivors’ perceptions of survivorship care follow-up options: a cross-sectional, mixed-methods survey. Support Care Cancer 2015; 24:2007-2015. [PMID: 26530226 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-015-2981-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2015] [Accepted: 10/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Beadnall HN, Kuppanda KE, O'Connell A, Hardy TA, Reddel SW, Barnett MH. Tablet-based screening improves continence management in multiple sclerosis. Ann Clin Transl Neurol 2015; 2:679-87. [PMID: 26125042 PMCID: PMC4479527 DOI: 10.1002/acn3.205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate whether electronic continence questionnaires aid early identification and optimizes management of sphincter dysfunction in a multiple sclerosis clinic. Methods A custom designed, tablet-based cross-platform software tool was designed to capture validated multiple sclerosis (MS) patient-reported outcomes. An unselected cohort of MS patients from a tertiary referral clinic completed electronic tablet-based versions of the Bladder Control Scale (BLCS) and the Bowel Control Scale in the waiting room. Data were captured wirelessly “on-the-fly” and stored in a deidentified, secure database; and individual questionnaire results were immediately available to the treating neurologist in the electronic medical record. Scores of ≥2 on either questionnaire generated an automated electronic referral to the clinic MS continence nurse (MS CN). Results One hundred and fifty-seven MS patients completed a total of 184 electronic continence test sets and on two occasions only the BLCS was completed. An automatic electronic referral for formal continence review was generated 128 times in 108 patients. Fifty-seven formal continence assessments were undertaken by the MS CN following automated referral. All reviews resulted in at least one clinical intervention being made. Interpretation Tablet-based data capture and automated continence referral using this software tool is an efficient, sensitive, and feasible method of screening MS patients for bladder and bowel dysfunction. Concordance with the results of formal continence assessment in this pilot study validates the use of this technology as a screening tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi N Beadnall
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; Multiple Sclerosis Clinic, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Kushi E Kuppanda
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinic, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; Multiple Sclerosis Australia Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Annmaree O'Connell
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinic, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; Multiple Sclerosis Australia Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Todd A Hardy
- Multiple Sclerosis Clinic, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; Neuroimmunology Clinic, Concord Hospital and University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Stephen W Reddel
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; Department of Neurology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; Concord Clinical School, University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael H Barnett
- Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; Multiple Sclerosis Clinic, Brain and Mind Research Institute, University of Sydney Sydney, New South Wales, Australia ; Department of Neurology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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Viger L, Denis F, Rosalie M, Letellier C. A cancer model for the angiogenic switch. J Theor Biol 2014; 360:21-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2014.06.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2013] [Revised: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 06/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Denis F. Response to Andrea Tendas et al.’s making quality of life assessment a dashboard for patients management. Support Care Cancer 2014; 22:2313. [DOI: 10.1007/s00520-014-2310-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 05/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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