Experiences of mHealth use in head and neck cancer care: a thematic synthesis guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVE

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is associated with significant symptom burdens and functional impairments that may hinder sustained engagement with mobile health (mHealth). Despite its potential for symptom monitoring and rehabilitation, factors driving mHealth adoption and sustained integration into routine care remain poorly understood. Existing qualitative evidence capturing patient, caregiver, and clinician perspectives remains fragmented. This study aimed to synthesize qualitative evidence on experiences of mHealth use in HNC care and to elucidate factors shaping acceptance and sustained use, guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT).

METHODS

This qualitative evidence synthesis was registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251272651). PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and CINAHL were searched from inception to 7 September 2025 for English-language studies reporting qualitative data on mHealth use in HNC care. Two reviewers independently conducted study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment. A best-fit framework approach was employed, combining deductive mapping to the UTAUT with inductive coding of emergent concepts.

RESULTS

Eleven studies across multiple countries were included. Five interrelated themes were identified, encompassing perceived clinical value, usability and burden, professional and social endorsement and support, system readiness and workflow integration, and dynamic changes in needs and perceptions across the cancer care trajectory. Confidence in the review findings ranged from moderate to high.

CONCLUSIONS

Acceptance and sustained use of mHealth in HNC care are shaped by a dynamic interplay among perceived clinical value, usability and burden, professional and social endorsement and support, and system readiness and workflow integration, with the cancer care trajectory acting as a key moderator of engagement.