JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

There is growing evidence that physical activity is related to a better prognosis after a breast cancer diagnosis, whereas sedentary behavior is associated with worse outcomes. It is therefore important to stimulate physical activity and reduce sedentary time among breast cancer patients. Activity trackers offer a new opportunity for interventions directed at stimulating physical activity behavior change.

Objective:

This study explored the experience of breast cancer patients who used an activity tracker in addition to a supervised exercise intervention in the randomized UMBRELLA Fit trial.

Methods:

Ten patients with breast cancer who completed cancer treatment participated in semi-structured in-depth interviews about their experience with and suggestions for improvements for the Jawbone UP2 activity tracker.

Results:

The activity tracker motivated women to be physically active and created more awareness of their (sedentary) lifestyles. The women indicated that the automatically generated advice (received via the UP app) lacked individualization and was not applicable to their personal situations (i.e., having been treated for cancer). Furthermore, women felt that the daily step goal was one-dimensional and they preferred to incorporate other physical activity goals. The activity tracker’s inability to measure strength exercises was a noted shortcoming. Finally, women valued personal feedback about the activity tracker from the physiotherapist.

Conclusions:

Wearing an activity tracker raised lifestyle awareness in breast cancer patients. The women also reported additional needs not addressed by the system. Potential improvements include a more realistic total daily physical activity representation, personalized advice, and personalized goals.