Exploring childhood cancer survivor, parent, healthcare and community professionals’ experiences of, and priorities for, using digital health to engage in physical activity: a mixed methods study

Abstract

Abstract Purpose Digital health interventions provide an innovative way to engage childhood cancer survivors in physical activity, yet few studies have explored the priorities of key stakeholders regarding using digital health. We aimed to investigate survivor, parent, and healthcare and community professional (HCP) experiences, priorities, and perceived importance of using digital health to promote physical activity behaviours for survivors. Methods Participants rated the importance of digital health features to promote physical activity in a survey. Guided by survey responses, we facilitated online focus groups or semi-structured interviews to discuss participants’ experiences, priorities, and suggestions in-depth. We transcribed the data verbatim and conducted directed content analysis. Results Forty participants took part in focus groups or interviews (including 9 childhood cancer survivors aged 8–21 years, 13 parents, and 18 HCP). Four key priorities were identified: health behaviour education, peer and parent involvement, goalsetting, and support from an HCP. There was a strong preference for digital mediums to facilitate physical activity due to its accessibility and convenience. Common intervention suggestions included earlier intervention (before the survivorship period), tailored and age-appropriate programs, a combined diet and exercise approach, and concise education delivery. Conclusions This study identified key priorities that may help to promote physical activity behaviours among childhood cancer survivors. Further research is needed to integrate these priorities into health behaviour interventions and evaluate their feasibility and efficacy. Implications for Cancer Survivors Incorporating these multi-perspective priorities into future interventions will help to ensure their sustainability, acceptability, and uptake. This will in turn support childhood cancer survivors to develop a healthy lifestyle into adulthood.