Purpose: This study tested the feasibility and efficacy of using a text-based intervention to increase initiation, decrease discontinuation, and improve adherence as prescribed to adjuvant hormone therapy (AHT) among hyphenate post-menopausal breast cancer survivors.
Methods: The 3-month intervention consisted of daily text message reminders to take medication, coupled with a dynamic (eg, feedback on progress) tailored intervention using weekly interactive surveys delivered by a smartphone app. Five clinic sites within the Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology participated. Hormone levels were measured prior to AHT initiation and at study exit.
Results: Of the 39 patients recruited to the pilot study, 27 (69.2%) completed all study requirements (completed both the baseline and the exit surveys, both blood draws, and did not miss more than 2 weekly surveys). Significant improvements were observed pre- to postintervention for self-reported medication adherence (P = .015), mental health functioning (P = .007), and perceived stress (P = .04). Significant decreases in estradiol, estrogen, and estrone hormone levels were observed from baseline to study exit (P < .001), indicating the accuracy of self-reported AHT adherence. Participants (91.9%) and physicians (100%) agreed that participant participation in the intervention was beneficial.
Conclusions: The results of this pilot study established the general feasibility and efficacy of an app-based intervention to support patient AHT adherence. Larger controlled, randomized trials are needed to examine the effectiveness of the app-based intervention in improving AHT and quality of life among breast cancer survivors.
Keywords: adjuvant hormone therapy; breast cancer; intervention; mobile apps.