Introduction
Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a common, debilitating symptom experienced by brain cancer (BC) survivors, impairing quality of life. RESTORE is an online intervention designed to enhance self-efficacy to self-manage CRF following primary cancer treatment. An evaluation of RESTORE confirmed feasibility and demonstrated preliminary efficacy in enhancing self-efficacy to self-manage CRF; however, this evaluation did not include any BC survivors. Given the unique functional, social and emotional deficits experienced by BC survivors, further research exploring the appropriateness of RESTORE for this population is needed.
Aim
We aimed to: (i) explore the appropriateness of RESTORE; and, (ii) identify modifications required to tailor suitability for BC survivors.
Methods
Semi-structured interviews conducted with (i) health professionals (HP) experienced in caring for adults with BC; (ii) BC survivors; and, (iii) caregivers, with a target n=15 per group. Participants were recruited via Cooperative Trials Groups and social media. Before the interview participants reviewed a video summarising intervention components and accessed the intervention. Interviews were conducted via zoom, audio-recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis identified preliminary themes.
Results
Preliminary analysis (n = 6 interviews; 5 HP and 1 BC survivor) indicated four themes: (1) potential benefits; (2) not universally suitable; (3) recommended modifications; and, (4) barriers to use. While participants reported positive aspects of the intervention mixed perceptions emerged regarding suitability of RESTORE across the BC spectrum. Recommended modifications included tailoring content to better reflect BC experiences and changes to format (e.g. use of videos & audio). Barriers included computer literacy, English language proficiency, and patient’s functional deficits.
Conclusion
Participants reported potential benefits of RESTORE for BC survivors, however, RESTORE may not be suitable for all. This study identified modifications required to tailor suitability of RESTORE for BC survivors and barriers to address. Interviews are ongoing; final results will be presented.