Exploring Breast Cancer Survivors' Preferences for Text Messaging-Based Mobile Health Interventions Targeting Sleep and Physical Activity: Qualitative Study.

BACKGROUND

Sleep disturbances and low physical activity are common among breast cancer (BC) survivors and are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Given the increased access to technological devices and the growing popularity of SMS text messaging-based mobile health interventions, these tools have the potential to both address sleep disturbances and promote physical activity in a scalable and cost-effective way. To understand and make effective use of these tools, it is important to consider the preferences of BC survivors with sleep disturbances, including how SMS text messaging-based mobile health interventions could deliver interventions involving physical activity and sleep hygiene.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to explore the perspectives and preferences of BC survivors regarding text messaging-based mobile interventions targeting sleep and physical activity.

METHODS

Three focus groups (n=13 participants) and 3 individual interviews (n=3) were conducted from May 2020 to March 2021 with 16 BC survivors (mean age=59.3, SD 8.9 y) currently experiencing sleep disturbances. The interview questions focused on their experiences with poor sleep and preferences for text messaging-based mobile health interventions. Thematic analysis was applied to the deidentified transcriptions of audio recordings.

RESULTS

Three themes were identified: (1) attitudes toward health interventions delivered through text messaging, (2) specific user needs, and (3) technology usage habits and preferences. Most participants reported a positive attitude toward the possibility of using technology to help improve their sleep and increase their physical activity. Most expressed a high level of acceptance toward some technologies, such as text messaging and mobile apps, but not others, such as voice interactions. In terms of desired features, reminders and accountability features, such as meeting physical activity goals, were mentioned most frequently. In addition, incorporating bedtime and relaxation exercise reminders was thought to be helpful. Regarding time and frequency, a daily reminder scheduled for 1 hour before bedtime was found to be acceptable.

CONCLUSIONS

The insights have been used to guide the development of a messaging-based mobile health intervention for improving sleep and physical activity in BC survivors. Future research will focus on delivering an intervention addressing these health behaviors and assessing its acceptability and effectiveness.