Co-designing Healthy Living after Cancer Online: an online nutrition, physical activity, and psychosocial intervention for post-treatment cancer survivors

Purpose: The aim of the present study was to co-design Healthy Living after Cancer Online (HLaC Online), an online intervention supporting cancer survivors to set and meet their healthy living goals. 

Methods: Adapted from an initial telephone-delivered Healthy Living after Cancer program, wireframes (PDF black and white mock-ups) of the proposed online program were presented in a series of focus groups and interviews to our stakeholder group, which consisted of cancer survivors, oncology healthcare professionals, and representatives from cancer support organisations. Stakeholders were prompted for feedback on the wireframe and given end-user scenarios to encourage deeper engagement with the co-design process. Transcriptions underwent thematic analysis to determine which features of the program needed change or expansion. 

Results: 27 participants took part in one of 8 focus groups or 10 interviews. Five themes were identified relating to (a) website design elements, (b) promoting and maintaining long-term engagement, (c) relatability and relevance, (d) navigating professional support, and (e) family and peer support. Recommended changes, such as simple activities and guidance videos, were integrated into the HLaC Online prototype.

Conclusions: Involving end-users in the co-design process ensured the intervention’s relevance and specificity to the needs of cancer survivors. Next steps include feasibility testing the prototype, prior to commencing a national randomised control trial of HLaC Online. 

Implications for Cancer Survivors: HLaC Online aims to support cancer survivors to improve their quality of life by making healthy lifestyle changes in their physical activity, healthy eating, weight management, mental health, and fatigue management.