Study protocol for weSurvive: a feasibility trial of a digital health intervention to improve quality of life and health behaviors of Appalachian cancer survivors

More individuals diagnosed with cancer are living longer; yet many post‐treatment cancer survivors engage in unhealthful energy‐balance related behaviors (EBRBs, i.e., nutrition and physical activity behaviors) that increase risk for cancer recurrence and other chronic diseases and decrease their quality of life (QoL). Behavioral interventions can improve the EBRBs of cancer survivors, yet none have been designed to meet the needs of cancer survivors in Appalachia, a largely rural and medically underserved region that experiences cancer disparities. This trial targets this gap by evaluating the feasibility of weSurvive, a novel digital health intervention designed to improve QoL for post‐treatment cancer survivors living in or near Appalachia by targeting EBRBs. weSurvive is ground in Social Cognitive Theory and consists of three components: eight group sessions, three coaching calls, and weekly text messages. Using a randomized control trial with a robust process evaluation informed by Bowen's feasibility framework, this trial seeks to determine the feasibility of the weSurvive intervention among post‐treatment cancer survivors (n = 114). The trial aims are to assess (1) changes in QoL (primary outcome) and other limited efficacy outcomes (e.g., changes in EBRBs) in intervention participants compared to those in delayed contact at 6‐months, (2) maintenance of limited efficacy outcomes among intervention participants, and (3) other feasibility indicators at the participant‐ and system‐levels (i.e., acceptability, practicality, demand, integration). The long‐term goal is to develop and implement an effective and scalable behavioral intervention to improve the QoL of post‐treatment cancer survivors in Appalachian communities and other rural populations.