A cancer-related fatigue (CRF) app has become the first of its kind to be approved by the NHS, having been made available for free via the NHS Apps Library.
The Untire app, which aims to tackle CRF – one of the most common side effects of cancer and its treatment – has successfully passed NHS assessment, which is in place to make sure that only safe and secure apps and digital tools are published on the NHS Apps Library.
Although fatigue is the most common side effect of cancer, the firm said that there is a lack of awareness among patients and providers.
“Untire aims to help users gain better control of their energy levels by getting and keeping them mentally and psychologically active,” said founding partner of Untire and social entrepreneur Door Vonk.
“The programme offers a combination of insightful themes, such as sleep, anxiety, setting limits and nutrition, guidelines for managing energy, physical exercises to build strength, activities to reduce stress, and tips to improve mood.”
Debbie Smith, Macmillan Cancer information and support centre manager at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Wythenshawe Hospital, added: “We often guide people to the NHS Apps Library as many people like the choices and accessibility. Untire is a definite positive addition to the collection – it gives people encouragement to take control when they have possibly felt so out of control and vulnerable due to CRF.”
According to Untire, initial findings from a randomized-control-trial (RCT) study with the University of Groningen, Netherlands, demonstrated that the firm’s app significantly reduced fatigue while increasing happiness amongst users.
Dr Bram Kuiper, who has been a clinical psychologist in oncology for over thirty years, added: “We’re proud that Untire is trusted by the NHS, which is so important for cancer patients and healthcare providers.”
“The app is designed to help all cancer patients and survivors regardless of age, cancer stage or cancer type, and we hope that its availability via the NHS Apps Library gives patients and care providers an additional tool for effectively managing cancer-related fatigue.”