Technological Resources for Physical Rehabilitation in Cancer Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Scoping Review

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2024

Authors

Amarelo, A (Author) Other; Mota, M (Author) Other; Amarelo, B (Author) Other; Marta Campos Ferreira (Author) FEUP; Fernandes, CS (Author) Other

Journal

Title: Cancers

Vol. 16

Final page: 3949

ISSN: 2072-6694

Publisher: MDPI

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 1 Citation

Scopus - 1 Citation

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-017-M6M

DOI: 10.3390/cancers16233949

Abstract (EN): Background/Objectives: Cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy often face challenges that reduce their physical function and quality of life. Technological resources offer innovative solutions for physical rehabilitation, but the extent of their application in this context remains unclear. This scoping review aims to explore and map the various technological tools used to support physical rehabilitation in cancer patients during chemotherapy, focusing on their potential to improve outcomes and enhance patient care. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) guidelines and the PRISMA-ScR framework. Comprehensive searches were performed in the MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, SPORTDiscus, and COCHRANE databases. The included studies focused on the technological resources used in physical rehabilitation for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Data extraction followed the World Health Organization's Classification of Digital Health Interventions v1.0 to categorize the technologies. Results: A total of 32 studies met the inclusion criteria. The most commonly used technologies included wearable devices (16 studies), web-based platforms and telerehabilitation systems (7 studies), mHealth applications (6 studies), virtual reality (2 studies), and exergaming (3 studies). These tools were designed to enhance physical function, manage treatment-related symptoms, and improve overall quality of life. Wearable devices were particularly effective for monitoring physical activity, while web-based platforms and mHealth applications supported remote rehabilitation and patient engagement. Conclusions: Technological resources offer significant opportunities for personalized rehabilitation interventions in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. However, further research is needed to evaluate the long-term effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and clinical integration of these tools to ensure broader accessibility and sustainable impact.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 24