A meta-analysis of 2,018 colorectal cancer patients examined whether digital health interventions, such as apps or online programs, could affect anxiety, depression, and quality of life compared to control conditions. The study combined results from multiple earlier trials to look for overall patterns.
The analysis found that digital health interventions were associated with potential reductions in anxiety and depression, and an improvement in quality of life. The effect sizes were moderate to large, but the certainty of the evidence was rated as low due to substantial heterogeneity among the studies.
No safety concerns were reported in the included studies, but the authors noted that the evidence is not definitive. The main reason to be cautious is the low certainty and variability between studies, meaning the true effect could be different.
Realistically, this suggests digital health tools hold promise for supporting mental health and well-being in colorectal cancer patients, but high-quality randomized trials are needed to confirm these findings before they can guide care.