JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Electronic daily intensive longitudinal methods offer a powerful tool for capturing the daily experiences of individuals. However, its feasibility, effectiveness, and optimal methodological approaches for studying or monitoring experiences of oncology patients remain uncertain.

Objective:

This scoping review aimed to describe to what extent electronic daily intensive longitudinal methods have been used among patients with breast or lung cancer and with which methodologies and associated outcomes.

Methods:

Electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, PsycINFO) were searched up to April 2022. We included studies reporting on the use of these methods among adults with breast or lung cancer. Data was extracted on population characteristics, the intensive monitoring methodology, study findings, and factors influencing implementation of these methods in research and clinical practice.

Results:

We identified 1140 articles and included 42, reporting on 34 studies. Study aims and intensive monitoring methodologies varied widely, but most studies focused on measuring physical and psychological symptom constructs, such as pain, anxiety or depression. Compliance and attrition rates seemed acceptable for most studies, although complete methodological reporting was often lacking. Few studies specifically examined these methods among patients with advanced cancer. Factors influencing implementation were linked to both patient (e.g. confidence with intensive monitoring system) and methodology (e.g. option to use personal devices).

Conclusions:

Electronic daily intensive longitudinal methods hold promise to provide unique insights into the daily lives of patients with cancer. Intensive longitudinal methods may be feasible among people with breast or lung cancer. Our findings encourage further research to determine optimal conditions for intensive monitoring, specifically in more advanced disease stages.