Rapid systematic review on developing web-based interventions to support people affected by cancer

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Cancer Support Interventions
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Developing effective web-based interventions is crucial for supporting people affected by cancer (PABC).
• A timely evidence synthesis was needed to inform the creation of a new digital resource, 'Shared Lives: Cancer'.
• This study employed a rapid review methodology for efficient evidence gathering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically identify and explore existing evidence for developing web-based interventions for PABC.
• To inform the design and development of user-centered digital health resources for cancer patients and survivors.

Main Methods:

• A rapid review was conducted following Cochrane guidelines and PRISMA checklist.
• Keyword searches in MEDLINE identified peer-reviewed literature on web-based intervention development for PABC.
• Included studies reported primary data on design, usability, feasibility, acceptability, functionality, and user experience.

Main Results:

• Ten studies met eligibility criteria, all using iterative co-design with mixed methods.
• Key themes included exploring evidence/guidelines, identifying user needs, and evaluating resource usability.
• Resources should integrate end-user experiences, guidelines, and theory early in the design process.

Conclusions:

• This rapid review offers methodological insights for designing web-based interventions for PABC.
• Findings can guide researchers in developing future digital health resources for cancer patients.
• Emphasizing co-design and user-centered evaluation is vital for effective digital health tools.