The younger women’s wellness after cancer program: results from feasibility testing in Aotearoa New Zealand (the ‘Kōwhai study’)

Purpose: This paper reports the feasibility testing of the Younger Women’s Wellness after Cancer Program in Aotearoa New Zealand (the ‘Kōwhai Study’) by examining (a) intervention uptake, adherence, and sustainability over time and (b) the feasibility of the proposed trial methods. Methods: Participants were female, aged between 18 and 50 years, and had completed stage I or II breast cancer treatment within the previous 24 months. They also had internet access. Participants were randomly allocated 1:1 to the intervention or control group. The intervention consisted of systematic 12-week internet-based individualised coaching based on promoting a sustainable healthy lifestyle and managing treatment side effects. The control group received the usual care expected from their treating healthcare teams. Outcomes were measured at baseline, week 12, and week 24. The sample size for the study was 60 participants. Results: Target N = 60 was reached, with groups evenly matched socio-demographically. All participants completed all questionnaires at baseline (average 15–20 min to complete). Complete intervention/control questionnaire data was provided at week 12 by 76.7%/73.3% and week 24 by 86.7%/70.0% respectively. The 12-week intervention was completed by 28/30 participants. Free-text data strongly indicated intervention and study processes were acceptable and feasible to participants. Conclusion: In Aotearoa New Zealand, the intervention is valued by the target group and the study processes are feasible. Trial registration Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12620000260921. Registered on 27 February 2020.