Effects of Digital Physical Activity Interventions for Breast Cancer Patients and Survivors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract

Objectives The benefits of physical activity (PA) for breast cancer (BC) patients and survivors are well documented. With the widespread use of the internet and mobile phones, along with the recent coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, there has been a growing interest in digital health interventions. This study conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the effects of digital PA interventions for BC patients and survivors in improving PA and quality of life (QoL). Methods We searched eight databases, including PubMed, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials in the Cochrane Library, RISS, and DBpia. Studies were included if they provided digital PA interventions, assessed PA and QoL among BC patients and survivors, and were published from inception to December 31, 2022. Results In total, 18 studies were identified. The meta-analysis showed significant improvement in the total PA duration (five studies; standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.71; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.25–1.18; I2 = 86.64%), functional capacity (three studies; SMD = 0.38; 95% CI, 0.10–0.66; I2 = 14.36%), and QoL (nine studies; SMD = 0.45; 95% CI, 0.22–0.69; I2 = 65.55%). Conclusions Digital PA interventions for BC patients and survivors may significantly improve PA, functional capacity, and QoL. Future research should focus on the long-term effects of digital PA interventions, using objective outcome measures.

Keywords

• breast neoplasms
• digital technology
• exercise
• meta-analysis
• systematic review