Feasibility and acceptability of ExerciseGuideUK for those living with and beyond lung cancer: a mixed methods study

Clinical Snapshot

Key Findings

• P Value: Not applicable (feasibility study)

• Effect Size: High acceptability and usability scores (specific values not provided in abstract)

• Primary Outcome: Feasibility: 30.5% recruitment rate, 77% retention rate

• Nnt Or Sensitivity: 25.4% of screened participants excluded due to digital access issues

• Confidence Interval: Not reported

Clinical Application

Moderate feasibility demonstrated but significant digital divide barriers identified Relevant to Australian cancer survivorship care; would need adaptation for PBS-funded allied health services and integration with existing cancer care pathways Lung cancer survivors with adequate digital literacy and technology access

Abstract

PURPOSE: Digital health interventions offer promise for addressing unmet needs in individuals living with and beyond lung cancer (LWBLC). ExerciseGuideUK, a personalised, web-based exercise platform, was developed for those LWBLC. This study aimed to evaluate ExerciseGuideUK. METHODS: Participants were recruited from Hull University Teaching Hospital and used ExerciseGuideUK over eight weeks. Feasibility and acceptability were assessed using quantitative measures, including the System Usability Scale, structured questionnaires, and qualitative interviews (guided by the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability). A novel mixed-methods integration approach called the Pillar Integration process (PIP) was used to integrate quantitative and qualitative findings on feasibility, engagement, barriers, and adaptation potential. RESULTS: Eighteen participants (mean age 65 ± 14.42y) enrolled. Recruitment and retention rates were 30.5% and 77%, respectively. Notably, 25.4% of those screened were excluded due to digital access issues, including some participants who owned smartphones, suggesting limited digital literacy. Among those who participated, acceptability, usability, and engagement were high. Valued features included goal-setting tools, breathlessness management strategies, and personalised exercise prescriptions. Barriers included treatment side effects, work responsibilities, and low confidence with technology. CONCLUSION: ExerciseGuideUK showed moderate feasibility and high acceptability among users. This is the first known application of PIP in the context of lung cancer, exercise, and digital health. The PIP facilitated a comprehensive understanding of feasibility and acceptability, guiding informed adaptations by users. The PIP warrants further testing and refinement in relation to optimising digital intervention design that promotes equitable, patient-centred care. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05121259.

References

1. 1.Curry, J., Pearson, M., Short, C. E., Vandelanotte, C., Evans, H. E. L., Lind, M., & Forbes, C. C. (2026). Feasibility and acceptability of ExerciseGuideUK for those living with and beyond lung cancer: a mixed methods study. Supportive Care in Cancer. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsampl.2024.100055