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Cancer research

Validation of Wearable Activity Monitors in Lung Cancer Patients

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Research has highlighted the gap in the validation of wearable devices in populations with cancer, particularly in patients with lung cancer, who experience unique mobility challenges and gait impairments. A recent study aims to address this gap by validating the Fitbit Charge 6, ActiGraph LEAP, and activPAL3 micro in patients with lung cancer in both laboratory and free-living conditions. The study aims to develop a standardized framework for assessing wearable devices in populations with cancer and impaired mobility. The researchers will enroll 15 adults diagnosed with lung cancer and wear the devices simultaneously for 7 days. The study will assess the accuracy of the devices using validated survey instruments and compare the results with video-recorded observations. The findings of this study will provide critical insights into the accuracy and reliability of wearable activity monitors for assessing physical activity in lung cancer survivors.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study aims to validate the accuracy of the Fitbit Charge 6, ActiGraph LEAP, and activPAL3 micro in patients with lung cancer in both laboratory and free-living conditions.
  • The researchers will enroll 15 adults diagnosed with lung cancer and wear the devices simultaneously for 7 days, except during water-based activities.
  • The study will assess the accuracy of the devices using validated survey instruments and compare the results with video-recorded observations.
  • The laboratory protocol will consist of a series of structured activities, including variable-time walking trials, sitting and standing tests, posture changes, and gait speed assessments.
  • The free-living protocol will involve participants wearing the devices continuously for 7 days, except during water-based activities.
  • The study aims to develop a standardized framework for assessing wearable devices in populations with cancer and impaired mobility.
  • The researchers will use Bland-Altman plots, intraclass correlation analysis, and 95% limits of agreement to assess the agreement between devices.
  • The participation enrollment is expected to conclude in mid-2025, and initial findings are expected to be disseminated by the end of 2025.

Statistics:

  • 15 adults diagnosed with lung cancer will participate in the study.
  • The study aims to enroll participants within 15 months, with an expected completion date of mid-2025.
  • The researchers will assess the accuracy of the devices using validated survey instruments and compare the results with video-recorded observations.
  • The study will evaluate the agreement between devices using Bland-Altman plots, intraclass correlation analysis, and 95% limits of agreement.
  • 8 (73%) participants are women, and the average age of the enrolled participants is 63.0 years (SD 7.8; range 50.0-73.0).

Sources:

  • "Comparing the Accuracy of Different Wearable Activity Monitors in Patients With Lung Cancer and Providing Initial Recommendations: Protocol for a Pilot Validation Study." JMIR Research Protocols, 2025;14.
  • NewsRx. "Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Reports Findings in Lung Cancer (Comparing the Accuracy of Different Wearable Activity Monitors in Patients With Lung Cancer and Providing Initial Recommendations: Protocol for a Pilot Validation Study)." Information Technology Newsweekly. July 1, 2025; p 466.

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