Effectiveness of Digital Health on the Quality of Life of Long-Term Breast Cancer Survivors: A Systematic Review

Semin Oncol Nurs. 2023 Apr 10:151418. doi: 10.1016/j.soncn.2023.151418. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: To identify, critically appraise, and synthesize the available evidence on the effectiveness of digital health interventions to improve the quality of life or any of its four dimensions (physical, psychological, social, and spiritual) in women survivors of breast cancer who are in the extended or permanent survival stage.

DATA SOURCES: Systematic review-Four databases were searched: PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Web of Science.

CONCLUSION: The clinical evidence shows a positive relationship or association between eHealth use and improved quality of life in breast cancer survivors at extended or permanent survival stage. However, the findings point to a deficit in the assessment of the social and spiritual domains that play a fundamental role in the quality of life of survivors.

IMPLICATION FOR NURSING PRACTICE: The findings found reflect implications of great value for nursing practice because these professionals are the main users of digital health tools to provide them to patients. Using these digital tools contributes to improving evidence-based practice and providing greater efficiency and effectiveness in the care of long-term cancer survivors.

PMID:37045645 | DOI:10.1016/j.soncn.2023.151418