Development, implementation, and evaluation of an app-based functional social relationships promotion program for cancer patients: A protocol study

Abstract

BACKGROUND:Cancer is a substantial public health issue in Iran and around the world. According to data consolidated from several studies, many cancer patients face social problems, such as issues with interpersonal relationships. This study aims to develop, implement, and evaluate a functional social relationships promotion program for cancer patients.MATERIALS AND METHODS:This is a development-applied study with four phases. Based on the planning model of Ewles and Simnett, by reviewing the extensive literature and databases, the need for the functional aspect of cancer patients' social relationships was identified in the first phase. An expert panel will prioritize the needs, and the preliminary version of the program will be finalized, and the relevant content to be presented through the app will be extracted. The required app features and architecture will be determined in the second phase, and the app will be developed. Next, the developed app will be made available to the designated contacts, and its quality and usability will be assessed. In the fourth phase, a semi-experimental study intervention and its impact on the functional aspect of social relationships will be evaluated.CONCLUSION:The study will lead to an app-based program that may potentially enhance the functional social relationships of cancer patients. Due to the established impact of social relationships on health and quality of life, it is imperative for health policymakers to address the social relationship needs of cancer patients. This study's findings may offer valuable insights to policymakers in this regard.