Presentation
Proof-of-Concept and Preliminary Efficacy of a SMS text messaging intervention to promote symptom management and medication adherence for patients prescribed oral anti-cancer agents: A randomized controlled trial
Midwest Nursing Research Conference
(2015)
Abstract
Significance: Cancer rates are increasing, as is the number of cancer patients treated with oral anti-cancer agents (OAs). Therapeutic effects may depend on medication adherence. The purpose of this study was to determine proof-of-concept of SMS text messaging intervention among cancer patients prescribed OAs and examined preliminary efficacy of SMS for symptom management and OA adherence.
Conceptual Framework: Self-Efficacy Theory directed heightening self-efficacy to promote adherence and symptom management.
Method:Patients (N=80) enrolled inalongitudinal randomized controlled trial at two community cancer centers and a large specialty pharmacy. Data on adherence and symptoms were collected weekly for 10-weeks and on a satisfaction survey in the intervention group. A total of 1,359 SMS were sent to patients in the intervention group timed to the medication regimen for 21 to 28 days.
Results: Mean age was 58.5 (Standard Deviation [SD] 10.7), 60% female (n=48), and 84% (n=67) Caucasian. Fifty-three percent (n=41) had solid tumors with over 50% (n=40) stage III/IV. Simple daily regimens were found in 59% (n=47); and 41% (n=33) were complex with cycling or multiple drugs. Fifty-seven percent (83 of 145) of eligible patients consented. Of those who were ineligible, 43% (51 of 119) did not have a cell phone and 35% (42 of 119) did not TM. Regarding eligible but chose not to enroll, 50% (31 of 62) were not interested and 11% (7 of 62) did not need a reminder. In the intervention group, 86% (n=30) read the TMs all the time. A majority (97%, n=34) reported satisfaction with TMs; 97% (n=34) thought TMs were helpful and 3% (n=1) a burden. At exit, the intervention group reported fewer symptoms (effect size [ES] .50), higher rates of adherence (ES .62), and improved physical function (ES .40) compared to the control group.
Conclusion:Proof-of-concept and preliminary efficacy of a mHealth intervention using SMS to promote symptom management and medication adherence for patients prescribed OAs was demonstrated. Most patients read the SMS and had high satisfaction. SMS shows promise for a engaging cancer patients to mange symptoms and OA adherence. Additional research is needed prior to use in practice.
Disciplines
Publication Date
Spring 2015
Citation Information
Sandra Spoelstra. "Proof-of-Concept and Preliminary Efficacy of a SMS text messaging intervention to promote symptom management and medication adherence for patients prescribed oral anti-cancer agents: A randomized controlled trial" Midwest Nursing Research Conference (2015) Available at: http://works.bepress.com/sandra-spoelstra/30/