A review of the evidence has found that digital support for women with breast cancer can improve quality of life and stress levels.
The systematic review, led by Australian researchers, looked at 32 studies from around the world which provided additional support to breast cancer patients in digital formats – whether they were videos and forums, mobile apps or text message check-in services. More than 4500 people were included in the review.
Overall, they found that digital support helped to improve quality of life, distress and fatigue – though they were most successful where patients could contact health professionals to answer questions or discuss concerns.
What’s more, there were high acceptance rates among the participants – most people thought that the digital supports were useful and easy to use.