Development of an app for lung cancer survivors (iEXHALE) to increase exercise activity and improve symptoms of fatigue, breathlessness and depression

Abstract

Objective Exercise‐based self‐management interventions are recommended for lung cancer survivors and can provide physical, psychosocial and emotional relief. Mobile health technologies can encourage self‐management; however, currently, no cancer‐related app addresses exercise‐specific needs of lung cancer survivors. This paper details the design, development and testing of an exercise app for lung cancer survivors (iEXHALE), which aims to increase exercise activity and improve symptoms. Methods The research had two stages: (1) focus groups with healthcare professionals, patients and family members (n=21) and (2) app development and usability study with lung cancer survivors (n=6). The Capability, Opportunity, Motivation‐Behaviour model was used as a theoretical framework; data were thematically analysed. Results Focus group findings identified many helpful exercises for managing lung cancer survivors' symptoms. These findings, alongside relevant literature, informed iEXHALE's content and design. The usability study found that lung cancer survivors valued iEXHALE's self‐management capabilities but identified potential modifications including improved self‐monitoring diaries and navigation.