Mobile Applications in Breast Cancer Postoperative Care: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background: The utilization of mobile application in postoperative care for breast cancer patients has seen a significant rise in recent years. This study aimed to synthesize the literature to identify the features of breast cancer postoperative care mobile applications. Methods: This scoping review was conducted using the framework developed by Arksey and O'Malley. All articles published from inception until July 25, 2024, were searched in the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE, and Cochrane databases. The quality of publications was evaluated using the mixed-methods appraisal tool (MMAT). Results: A total of 999 publications were found, of which 28 studies were considered in this review. Out of these studies, 14 used native apps, 14 used hybrid apps. Nine features were used in applications, and Tracker, Tailored Education, and Community Forum were the most repetitive features. In five studies, various devices and sensors, like Bluetooth and GPS, were utilized in mobile applications to monitor physical activity, stress levels, heart rate, sleep patterns, and calorie intake. Conclusions: Mobile applications for postoperative breast cancer care encompass a range of features. In a co-design approach, understanding patients' required features could help to develop usable applications to improve the postoperative care for breast cancer patients.