Feasibility of a lifestyle intervention for overweight/obese endometrial and breast cancer survivors using an interactive mobile application

• The purpose of this study was to elicit weight-loss via mobile app lifestyle intervention.
• The lifestyle intervention delivered via an app showed significant reductions in body weight.
• Significant improvements were noted in the Weight Efficacy Life-Style Questionnaire.

ObjectiveThe study aimed to assess a one-month lifestyle intervention delivered via a web- and mobile-based weight-loss application (app) (LoseIt!) using a healthcare-provider interface.MethodsEarly-stage overweight/obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 25 kg/m2) cancer survivors (CS) diagnosed in the past three years, and without recurrent disease were enrolled and received exercise and nutrition counseling using the LoseIt! app. Entry and exit quality of life (FACT-G) and Weight Efficacy Lifestyle Questionnaire (WEL) measuring self-efficacy were measured along with anthropometrics, daily food intake, and physical activity (PA) using the app.ResultsMean participant age was 58.4 ± 10.3 years (n = 50). Significant reductions (p < 0.0006) in anthropometrics were noted between pre- and post-intervention weight (105.0 ± 21.8 kg versus 98.6 ± 22.5 kg); BMI (34.9 ± 8.7 kg/m2 versus 33.9 ± 8.4 kg/m2); and waist circumference (108.1 ± 14.9 cm versus 103.7 ± 15.1 cm). A significant improvement in pre- and post-intervention total WEL score was noted (99.38 ± 41.8 versus 120.19 ± 47.1, p = 0.043). No significant differences were noted in FACT-G, macronutrient consumption, and PA patterns.ConclusionThese results indicate that a lifestyle intervention delivered via a web- and mobile-based weight-loss app is a feasible option by which to elicit short-term reductions in weight. Though these results parallel the recent survivors of uterine cancer empowered by exercise and healthy diet (SUCCEED) trial, it is notable that they were achieved without encumbering significant cost and barrier-access issues (i.e. time, transportation, weather, parking, etc.).