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Randomized Controlled Trial
. 2025 Jan 16;15(1):ibaf033.
doi: 10.1093/tbm/ibaf033.

Feasibility and acceptability of the Fit2Thrive mHealth physical activity promotion intervention components in breast cancer survivors

Payton Solk  1 , Jing Song  1 , Jean Reading  1 , Julia Starikovsky  1 , Erin Cullather  1 , Shirlene Wang  1 , Kristina Hasanaj  1 , Whitney A Morelli  2 , Bonnie Spring  1 , David Cella  1 , Frank Penedo  3 , Ron Ackermann  1 , Kerry S Courneya  4 , Juned Siddique  1 , Julia Frey  1 , Siobhan M Phillips  1
Affiliations
Randomized Controlled Trial

Feasibility and acceptability of the Fit2Thrive mHealth physical activity promotion intervention components in breast cancer survivors

Payton Solk et al. Transl Behav Med. .

Abstract

Background: Most breast cancer survivors (BCS) are insufficiently active. mHealth moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) interventions for BCS are highly scalable, but the feasibility and acceptability of specific intervention components are unknown.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to examine the feasibility and acceptability of the Fit2Thrive MVPA promotion intervention components.

Methods: Using Multiphase Optimization Strategy methodology, inactive BCS [n = 269; Mage = 52.5; (SD ± 9.9)] received a core intervention (Fitbit + Fit2Thrive smartphone app) and were randomly assigned to receive zero to five components for 12 weeks: (i) support calls; (ii) deluxe app; (iii) text messages, (iv) online gym; and (v) Buddy. Feasibility was measured through study accrual, retention, and adherence rates. Acceptability was measured via post-program evaluations.

Results: Enrollment rates were high; 419 BCS expressed interest in the study, 348 (83%) passed screening, and 269 (77%) were randomized; 98% (n = 264) received the intervention. Retention was 94% at 12 weeks. Fitbits were worn on 93% of study days. Most reported using the app ≥5 days/week (67%), enjoyed using the Fitbit (79%), and were satisfied with their study experience (88%) and the Fit2Thrive app design (79%). Component adherence rates and acceptability varied by intervention component. Component-specific effects on MVPA goal adherence and overall acceptability ratings were significant for telephone support calls.

Conclusions: Findings indicate Fit2Thrive's feasibility and acceptability were high overall but may vary by component. Future work should refine and test components to maximize participant engagement, efficacy, and scalability.

Clinical trial information: The Clinical Trials Registration NCT03131440.

Keywords: acceptability; breast cancer survivorship; feasibility; mHealth; physical activity.

Plain language summary

This study examined the feasibility and acceptability of Fit2Thrive, a technology-based intervention to promote physical activity among breast cancer survivors (BCS). Regular physical activity can improve health and quality of life for BCS, but many do not meet recommended activity levels. Fit2Thrive offers a scalable strategy to guide BCS in increasing their activity level. Results showed Fit2Thrive was generally well-received by participants. The core components, including a mobile app and Fitbit, were motivating and easy to use. However, when additional intervention features were tested, engagement varied. Telephone support calls were one additional feature rated as particularly helpful, with participants who received these calls showing better adherence to physical activity goals. Participant factors, including age, body mass index (BMI), and education, influenced how participants engaged with the intervention. Older participants, those with lower BMI, and those with higher education were more likely to use the app and meet physical activity goals. Overall, the core Fit2Thrive intervention was highly feasible and acceptable, and the findings suggest that highly automated interventions may be successful. The study supports the potential of Fit2Thrive to improve physical activity and health outcomes for BCS and could be adapted for other survivor groups.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors have no conflicts of interest to disclose.

References

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