October 22, 2020
The Untire app is a proven effective digital treatment for cancer related fatigue
The Untire app is a proven effective digital treatment for cancer related fatigue (Digital Medicine). This was the result of an extensive RCT study carried out by the University of Groningen with 800 cancer patients and survivors in the UK, the USA, Australia and Canada, all of whom suffered from severe cancer related fatigue. Dr Bram Kuiper, co-inventor of Untire ‘Independent research has shown that the Untire app actually reduces the fatigue of cancer patients and survivors and improves their quality of life, which is fantastic. We now have a resource that we can use to help lots of people in an accessible way.’
Untire’s content is based on methods that are proven to be effective and offers a comprehensive self-management program. It aims to engage users mentally and physically and break the vicious circle of fatigue. In addition to psychoeducation, which includes animations, physical activities, relaxation exercises, learning to manage energy and positive daily tips, there is a private online community where users can share their experiences.
Untire is suitable for all cancer patients
The Untire program is suitable for all cancer patients, regardless of their gender, age, type of cancer, treatment phase and prognosis. Doctors, nurses and cancer patient associations all over the world recommend Untire. Untire is currently available in Dutch, English and German.
Monitoring after 12 weeks
60% of the 800 people who participated in the randomized study with an intervention and control group carried out by the University of Groningen had received cancer treatment. Almost 10% of the test subjects had previously received professional help to combat their fatigue. In the study, two thirds of subjects were given the opportunity to start using Untire straight away. The remaining subjects formed a control group that was given access to the app 12 weeks later. The fatigue level and quality of life of the subjects were measured at various points. The study (with an intention-to-treat analysis) showed that after 12 weeks, Untire users had significantly fewer fatigue symptoms and were happier than the people in the control group.
Monitoring after 12 weeks
60% of the 800 people who participated in the randomized study with an intervention and control group carried out by the University of Groningen had received cancer treatment. Almost 10% of the test subjects had previously received professional help to combat their fatigue. In the study, two thirds of subjects were given the opportunity to start using Untire straight away. The remaining subjects formed a control group that was given access to the app 12 weeks later. The fatigue level and quality of life of the subjects were measured at various points. The study (with an intention-to-treat analysis) showed that after 12 weeks, Untire users had significantly fewer fatigue symptoms and were happier than the people in the control group.
Most progress
Further analysis of the research data showed that people who use the app regularly make the most progress, according to Groningen researcher Simon Spahrkäs. Using the app three times a week for 20 minutes already leads to very good results.
The study was published by Psycho Oncology.
