The Longevity of Mobile Apps for Cancer Recovery: Scoping Review.

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Oncology
• Health Informatics

Background:

• The growing number of cancer survivors necessitates improved long-term follow-up and supportive care strategies.
• Mobile health (mHealth) apps offer potential for patient-led follow-up and self-management in cancer recovery.
• The sustainability and evidence base of cancer-related mHealth apps require investigation, especially considering new regulations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the availability and longevity of English-language mobile apps for cancer recovery.
• To assess changes in app availability before and after the European Union Medical Device Regulation (MDR).
• To determine the extent to which these apps are supported by clinical evidence.

Main Methods:

• Scoping review of mobile app stores (Apple, Google Play) and literature databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science).
• Inclusion of apps targeting cancer recovery and studies on their effectiveness.
• Descriptive analysis of app availability and update trends over time.

Main Results:

• 151 cancer recovery apps were identified in 2018, but only 45 (30%) remained by 2024.
• Only 17% of the initial apps were updated in the last two years.
• One new evidence-based app for insomnia management in cancer survivors was identified.

Conclusions:

• A significant decline in the availability of cancer recovery apps was observed.
• Regulatory and financial barriers may limit the longevity of mHealth apps in cancer survivorship.
• Developing sustainable business models and rigorous effectiveness trials is crucial for future mHealth app success.