The Effects of an App-Based Physical Activity Program on Colorectal Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy

Abstract

Background Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Oxaliplatin, which is used as adjuvant chemotherapy, affects quality of life by causing oxaliplatin-induced peripheral neuropathy in colorectal cancer patients. Objectives This study examined the effects of an application (app)–based physical activity program for alleviating peripheral neuropathy symptoms in colorectal cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Methods This was a randomized controlled study that included 34 patients undergoing chemotherapy after being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Outcomes were compared between patients who participated in a 6-week app-based physical activity program (experimental group; n = 17) and who received standard booklet education (control group; n = 17). Data were collected using questionnaires, and exercise time was recorded to evaluate intervention adherence. Results Significant differences were observed between the groups in peripheral neuropathy symptoms (F = 8.93, P = .002), interference with activities (Z = −2.55, P = .011), and quality of life (F = 7.65, P = .003). The experimental group showed significantly higher average exercise times at 1 to 4 weeks (Z = −2.10, P = .026), 5 to 6 weeks (Z = −4.02, P < .001), and 1 to 6 weeks (Z = −3.40, P = .001) than the control group. Conclusions The app-based physical activity program had a positive effect on participants’ exercise adherence and reduced peripheral neuropathy symptoms. Thus, we propose the adoption of a mobile health app that can be used at any time or place as an intervention for preventing or alleviating adverse effects during the treatment of cancer patients. Implications for Practice An app-based physical activity program using the mobile health app can be used as a nursing intervention to manage symptoms and increase the health behavior adherence in cancer patients.