Factors associated with distress over time in women with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy: insights from a pilot study assessing a digital information tool

TL;DR

This pilot study examined how a digital information tool affects distress in breast cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy, finding potential but not statistically significant benefits.

Contribution

The study explores the impact of a digital information tool on distress in breast cancer patients during radiotherapy, focusing on health literacy and self-efficacy.

Findings

The intervention group showed a statistically significant reduction in distress over time.

No significant differences in distress prevalence were found between the groups.

No significant changes in health literacy or self-efficacy were observed.

Abstract

A cancer diagnosis and treatment pose significant physical and psychological challenges. The study aimed to explore factors associated with distress over time in women diagnosed with breast cancer undergoing radiotherapy (RT) with access to a digital information tool, specifically examining if factors such as health literacy and self-efficacy had any influence on distress.

In this pilot randomised controlled trial, women were assigned to an intervention group (n = 59) with access to a digital information tool or a control group (n = 52). Assessments were conducted at baseline, one week before RT (FU1), one week post- (FU2), and six months after treatment (FU3). Distress was measured at all time points, and associated factors were evaluated at baseline and six months.

In the intervention group, a statistically significant reduction in distress was observed over time (FU1, p = .009; FU2, p < .001; FU3, p < .001). The control group showed a significant reduction at FU3 (p = .009). Quade’s ANCOVA revealed no significant differences between the groups in distress prevalence (F = 3.460, p = .066). No significant changes in health literacy or self-efficacy were observed over time.

The results indicate no statistically significant effect on distress; however, there is a potential indication of a reduction in distress, suggesting that the digital information tool may offer some benefits. Further research is required to confirm this relationship.

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