A study to test an exercise and self-management application for people living with lung cancer
Living with lung cancer can bring challenging symptoms like tiredness and breathlessness, affecting daily life. Getting enough exercise can help but is often difficult. Researchers at Oxford Brookes University have developed a new easy-to-use app, called the HandHeld Health Lung Cancer App (HHH-LC App), to help people manage their symptoms and stay active from home. This study wants to find out if the app is helpful and simple to use. It will also look at whether the app can improve a person's physical ability, how well they manage their symptoms, their overall quality of life, and how much physical activity they do. If you have lung cancer, are over 18, and use a smartphone or computer, you might be able to take part.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Living with lung cancer can be very tough, with many people experiencing ongoing symptoms like feeling very tired, breathless, or down. These symptoms can make it hard to do everyday things and generally affect how well you feel. While exercise can really help with these problems, it's often difficult for people with lung cancer to join exercise programmes, perhaps due to travel, health limits, or other challenges.
This is where the new HandHeld Health Lung Cancer App (HHH-LC App) comes in. Researchers at Oxford Brookes University have created this app specifically for people with lung cancer. It's designed to be a flexible and easy way to support you in managing your symptoms and staying active right from your home. This study is all about testing this new app to see if it works well and is easy for people to use.
The main goal of the study is to understand if using the app can help improve your physical ability, how you manage your symptoms, your overall quality of life, and how much physical activity you get. Your feedback will be very important in making the app even better for others in the future.
Key takeaways
- A study testing a new app for lung cancer patients.
- Aims to improve symptom management and physical activity.
- Requires using a smartphone/tablet and attending some study visits.
- Potential benefits include better health and helping other patients.
- Risks are expected to be very low, mainly mild exercise discomfort.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged 18 years or older who have been diagnosed with lung cancer. You should be comfortable using a smartphone, tablet, or computer and interested in using a digital app to help manage your health and stay active.
There are also some health conditions or situations that might mean you can't join the study, as the researchers want to make sure it's safe and appropriate for everyone involved. For example, if you need oxygen all the time, have certain other serious health issues, or have had recent surgery or radiotherapy for lung cancer, you might not be able to take part. Also, if you're already in another clinical trial, you wouldn't be eligible for this one.
The research team will carefully check all specific details to make sure the study is a good fit for you and safe for your health. If you are interested, they will discuss all the requirements with you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am 18 years old or older.
- I have been diagnosed with lung cancer.
- I can use a smartphone, tablet, or computer with internet.
- I am interested in using an app to help manage my health.
- My doctor has not said I have other serious health problems that would prevent me from joining.
What does participation involve?
If you join the study, you'll be asked to use the HandHeld Health Lung Cancer App for a set period. This app allows you to keep track of your symptoms and physical activity, and it will give you personalised advice on exercises. You'll also be able to see how your activity levels and symptoms change over time. During the study, you will also complete questionnaires about your health, quality of life, and how confident you are with digital tools. You will also have some simple physical assessments at study visits. The researchers will invite some participants for a chat so you can share your thoughts and experiences about using the app, which will help them improve it further.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (3)
- Oxford Brookes UniversityApproximateOxford, England
- North Bristol NHS TrustCity onlyBristol, England
- Oxford University HospitalsCity onlyOxford, England
Common questions
What is the HHH-LC App?
It's a new digital app for people with lung cancer to help them manage symptoms and encourage physical activity at home.
Do I need my own smartphone or computer?
Yes, you need access to a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a secure internet connection to use the app.
How long does the study last?
The study runs from September 2024 to July 2025. Your individual participation period will be defined by the research team.
Where does the study take place?
Study visits will be at Oxford Brookes University in Oxford or Southmead Hospital in Bristol.
Will I get personalised exercise plans?
Yes, the app is designed to provide personalised exercise recommendations based on your activity and symptoms.
How to find out more
Suriya Kirkpatrick
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
Community discussion
Powered by our forum at community.patient.info. Please be respectful — this is not medical advice.