Feasibility, Acceptability, and Potential Effects of a Digital Oral Anticancer Agent Intervention: Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Patients taking oral anticancer agents (OAAs) often face challenges such as managing side effects, staying informed about treatment, and maintaining adherence. To address these needs, we launched a pilot study to test a comprehensive digital intervention designed to offer timely informational support, continuous monitoring, and assistance with medication adherence.

Grounded in the Self-Efficacy Theory, the study evaluated the feasibility, acceptability, and potential effects of the intervention. Conducted at a university-affiliated cancer center in Montreal, Canada, the randomized controlled trial included 52 participants assigned either to the intervention group (which received the digital tool plus usual care) or the control group (usual care only).

The digital intervention included:

• Informational videos about OAAs

• Downloadable e-handouts and support materials

• Nurse-led follow-up phone calls

• Electronic reminders to take medications

Participants completed electronic questionnaires weekly for the first month and biweekly for the following four months. A subset of 20 participants also completed exit interviews.

Feasibility was measured by recruitment, retention, and participation rates. Acceptability and potential effects were evaluated through questionnaires and interviews, with a focus on medication adherence, self-efficacy, and symptom distress.

Findings from this mixed-methods study offer important insights into how digital tools can support patients undergoing oral cancer treatment.

👉 Click here to access the full study.

For more information about this study, please contact:

Saima Ahmed

Loiselle-research@mcgill.ca

(514) 398-8977

Funded by:

The Christine and Herschel Victor/Hope & Cope Psychosocial Oncology Research Chair