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Feasibility, Acceptability, and Potential Effects of a Digital Oral Anticancer Agent Intervention: Protocol for a
Saima Ahmed1,2, Christine Maheu3, Walter Gotlieb1,2,4,5
1Division of Experimental Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
Background:
Individuals taking oral anticancer agents (OAAs) often face important challenges, requiring more timely informational support, ongoing monitoring, and side effect management.
Objective:
This study, guided by the Self-Efficacy Theory, aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and potential effects of a comprehensive, digital OAA intervention.
Methods:
A 2-arm, mixed methods, pilot randomized controlled trial took place at a large university-affiliated cancer center in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Participants (N=52) completed baseline self-report e-questionnaires and subsequently were randomly assigned to the experimental group (intervention plus usual care, n=26) or control group (usual care only, n=26). The study intervention, designed to increase medication adherence via medication adherence self-efficacy and decreased symptom distress, included (1) OAA informational videos, (2) OAA-related e-handouts and other supportive resources, (3) nurse-led follow-up calls, and (4) e-reminders to take OAAs. The e-questionnaires were completed once a week for the first month and every 2 weeks for the subsequent 4 months, or until OAA treatment was completed. A subset from both groups (n=20) participated in semistructured interviews once they completed the study requirements. Study feasibility is assessed using recruitment, retention, and response rates, as well as intervention uptake. Through e-questionnaires and exit interviews, intervention acceptability is to be assessed prospectively at baseline and retrospectively upon study completion. Potential effects are then assessed via medication adherence self-efficacy, medication adherence self-report, and symptom distress.
Results:
Data collection was completed by December 2023 with a final sample size of 41. Results are expected to be published in 2025.
Conclusions:
This study relies on a theoretically based, OAA digital intervention with modalities tailored to the needs and preferences of participants. The use of quantitative and qualitative methods enriches our understanding of the potential contributions of the intervention. In addition, following participants over the course of treatment captures potential changes in oral treatment-related processes and outcomes.
Trial Registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04984850; https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/study/nct04984850.
International Registered Report Identifier (Irrid):
DERR1-10.2196/55475.
Insights
This study explored a digital intervention for oral anticancer agents (OAAs) to improve adherence and reduce symptom distress. Results are forthcoming but the intervention shows promise for cancer patient support.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Digital Health
- Patient Support
Background:
- Patients on oral anticancer agents (OAAs) require enhanced support for adherence, monitoring, and side effect management.
- Challenges in OAA treatment necessitate innovative informational and supportive interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and potential effects of a digital intervention for patients on OAAs.
- To improve medication adherence and reduce symptom distress using Self-Efficacy Theory.
Main Methods:
- A 2-arm pilot randomized controlled trial involving 52 participants.
- Intervention included informational videos, e-handouts, nurse calls, and e-reminders.
- Mixed methods approach with e-questionnaires and semi-structured interviews.
Main Results:
- Data collection concluded with 41 participants.
- Full results are anticipated for publication in 2025.
Conclusions:
- The study developed a theoretically grounded digital OAA intervention tailored to patient needs.
- Mixed methods approach provides a comprehensive understanding of the intervention's impact.
- Longitudinal follow-up captures changes in oral treatment processes and outcomes.
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