Feasibility, Barriers, and Facilitators of Long-Term Physical Activity Tracking During Treatment: Interview Study Among Childhood Cancer Patients.

BACKGROUND

Children with cancer are at risk of reduced physical activity. Gaining insight into physical activity using smartwatches could improve understanding of individual potential during treatment, support early recognition of aberrant physical activity, and enable tailored support.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the feasibility, barriers, facilitators, and considerations of long-term physical activity tracking using a smartwatch during childhood cancer treatment.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 30 children (age 8-18 years) under active cancer treatment were included in 2 phases. During phase 1, 15 children wore a smartwatch daily for 12 consecutive weeks, and in-depth interviews were conducted to identify principal considerations used to optimize wearability and the methods for phase 2. In phase 2, another 15 children wore the smartwatch, and semistructured interviews were conducted at weeks 1, 3, 6, and 12. These interviews were thematically analyzed to identify barriers and facilitators. An iterative process of alternating data collection and analysis allowed for ongoing method refinement and deepening thematic analysis during the study period.

RESULTS

Key considerations for improvement identified in phase 1 led to refinements in phase 2, including enhanced engagement, regular prompts, customized plans, personalized setup, and improved aesthetics and comfort. The interviews conducted during phase 2 identified barriers and facilitators. The 4 most prominent themes were burden and resilience, motivational drivers and perception, insight and evaluation, and user experience and functionality. Feasibility was influenced by the child's physical state and perceived burden. Motivation, perceived value, and expectations played crucial roles in sustaining adherence, while also the balance between positive reinforcement and potential confrontation affected long-term use. User experience, including attractiveness, comfort, and usability, impacted acceptance.

CONCLUSIONS

Real-time and long-term physical activity tracking using a smartwatch in children during cancer treatment was not feasible in our cohort. A personalized approach, incorporating individual preferences and physical condition, is essential to support adherence.