Short Communication

Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Mobile Health Applications: Improving Cancer Prevention, Treatment, and Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries

Darelle Van Greunen^1*, Larry D Icard^1,2*, Alida Veldsman¹, Margaret Williams¹ and Phumla Diamini¹

¹Centre for Community Technologies, Nelson Mandela University, South Africa

²College of Public Health, Temple University, USA

Submission: January 26, 2024; Published: February 02, 2024

*Corresponding author: Darelle Van Greunen, Larry D Icard, Centre for Community Technologies, Nelson Mandela University, South Africa, College of Public Health, Temple University, USA

How to cite this article: Darelle Van G, Larry D I, Alida V, Adlai D, Margaret W, et al. Lessons Learned from COVID-19 Mobile Health Applications: Improving Cancer Prevention, Treatment, and Care in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Psychol Behav Sci Int J. 2024; 21(4): 556067. DOI: 10.19080/PBSIJ.2024.21.556067.

Abstract

The mHealth response to the COVID-19 pandemic provides valuable insights that can enhance the prevention, treatment, and care of cancer patients in LMICs. This discussion aims to spotlight crucial insights derived from this experience.

Keywords: Cancer; COVID-19; mhealth; Applications; South Africa; Low- and middle-income countries

Introduction

As of May 2023, COVID-19 has claimed around 7 million lives globally, with lower-income countries bearing a death toll four times higher than high-income countries [1]. Additionally, approximately 8 million people die from cancer each year, with 5 million of those cases occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) [2]. Disparities in cancer incidence and mortality in LMICs mirror those observed in COVID-19 outcomes [3-5]. Both diseases share lifestyle and behavioral risk factors, yet COVID-19 directly impacts cancer patients, particularly those with compromised immune systems. However, COVID-19 vaccines have proven effective in reducing the severity, hospitalization, and mortality rates among cancer patients.

mHealth COVID Solutions

The emergence of more than 346 COVID-related apps and over 1200 cancer-related apps on major app stores highlights the accelerated innovation and adoption of mHealth during the pandemic [6-9]. The rapid evolution of COVID-19 variants has further catalyzed the use of mHealth in public health efforts, potentially revolutionizing cancer care services. From preventive measures to post-COVID-19 care, mobile applications have played pivotal roles in managing the pandemic, offering risk assessment, symptom management, contact tracing, and programmatic decision-making tools [10,11].

Barriers and Solutions

Various barriers contribute to elevated cancer morbidity and mortality rates in LMICs, including low awareness, delayed diagnosis, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to technology [12-14]. Leveraging mHealth responses to COVID-19 can inform strategies for addressing these barriers. For instance, Mobile platforms like chatbots and WhatsApp have been effective in disseminating COVID-19 information, underscoring the importance of culturally tailored cancer education messages [15-17]. Additionally, cancer screening apps and self-examination tools have facilitated early detection and management, while mHealth applications aid in treatment management and patient support.

Conclusion

The mHealth response to COVID-19 offers valuable insights that can enhance cancer prevention, treatment, and care in LMICs. The widespread adoption of mHealth solutions during the pandemic underscores their potential in addressing healthcare disparities and improving patient outcomes. Recognizing cancer as a global health crisis akin to COVID-19 is crucial for maximizing the impact of mHealth solutions in LMICs.

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