Digital Transformation in Oncology: Monitoring of Adverse Effects of Oral Antineoplastic Agents Through mHealth Solutions

Abstract

Background: Healthcare systems face sustainability challenges due to the growing burden of chronic diseases such as cancer. The increasing use of oral antineoplastic agents shifts part of treatment management to the home setting, where adverse effects might go undetected between clinical visits. Objective: The authors aimed to redesign the care process for monitoring adverse effects related to oral antineoplastic agents through a mobile health application and to evaluate its implementation in routine outpatient oncology care. Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted in adult oncology patients receiving oral antineo-plastic agents. All participants received standardized training on symptom identification and application use. Participants used a mobile health application to report adverse effects from home over 3 months. Quantitative data on adverse effects, application use, and patient-reported outcomes were collected, together with qualitative feedback on user experience. Results: Forty-seven patients were included. The most frequently reported adverse effects were asthenia, abdominal pain, and anxiety. A small proportion of severe adverse effects required referral to other healthcare professionals. Most patients (87.2%) were classified as intermediate technology users. Application quality was rated highly, with a mean score of 4.44 out of 5. An increase in empowerment classification was observed, mainly related to improved preparation for clinical consultations. Conclusions: Integrating a mobile health application into outpatient oncology care is feasible and supports timely monitoring of adverse effects and patient–professional communication. Improvements in empowerment-related behaviors were modest and primarily associated with patient engagement. Oral antineoplastic agents allow many patients with cancer to continue treatment at home, but adverse effects may appear between hospital visits. This prospective interventional study evaluated whether a mobile health app could support symptom monitoring and communication with healthcare professionals. Forty-seven patients in Andorra used the Abeona Health app for 3 months to report symptoms and contact the care team. Most patients reported adverse effects, and app use was associated with improved patient empowerment and communication. These findings suggest that mHealth tools may support safer and more patient-centered oncology follow-up.