The role of wearable technologies in supporting physical and psychosocial health outcomes among breast cancer patients: a systematic review

Abstract

PurposeThis systematic review aimed to examine the effects of wearable technologies on physical functioning, symptom-related outcomes, and psychosocial health parameters in patients with breast cancer. The primary research question was whether wearable devices provide added value as supportive tools when integrated with established interventions such as exercise or mindfulness-based approaches.MethodsThe review was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD420251113029). A systematic search was conducted across Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Ovid MEDLINE. Randomized controlled trials evaluating wearable technologies in breast cancer populations were included. Study selection and data extraction were independently conducted by two reviewers using the Covidence platform. Due to heterogeneity in interventions and outcomes, results were synthesized using a narrative approach.ResultsThree randomized controlled trials published between 2019 and 2024 met the inclusion criteria, with sample sizes ranging from 28 to 52 participants. Wearable technologies included EEG headbands, activity trackers, and smart bracelets. Interventions supported by wearable devices were associated with improvements in fatigue, emotional and functional domains of quality of life, perceived stress, and physical activity. In exercise-based studies, objectively measured moderate-to-vigorous physical activity increased (e.g., median O-MVPA: 234.3 vs. 128.3 min/week), and cardiorespiratory fitness improved (VO(2)peak + 2.43 mL/kg/min). High feasibility and user acceptability were consistently reported.ConclusionFindings from a limited number of randomized controlled trials suggest that wearable technologies may play a supportive role in breast cancer care by facilitating monitoring, adherence, and self-management when combined with established interventions. However, the available evidence remains limited, and further high-quality research is needed to clarify the independent and additive contributions of wearable technologies to physical, clinical, and psychosocial outcomes.